A new joint operation targeting the sale of illegal cigarettes and vapes is now underway across Leicestershire, as Trading Standards and Leicestershire Police intensify efforts to identify and prosecute offenders.
Operation Hind has been launched in response to a rise in cases involving counterfeit tobacco products and illegal vaping devices. In recent years, both shop owners and over-the-counter sellers have been prosecuted by Leicestershire County Council’s Trading Standards team. The new initiative aims to pursue not only business owners but also shop workers who play a role in the illegal trade.
Picture credit: Trading Standards
The first conviction under Operation Hind has already been secured.
Mohammed Nabi, of Regent Street in Hinckley, pleaded guilty at Leicester Crown Court to 17 counts related to selling counterfeit cigarettes and illegal vapes, as well as possessing illicit items at his flat. Nabi was found selling the products at the Express Mini Market off Rugby Road, Hinckley. He was sentenced to 120 hours of unpaid work and ordered to pay £500 in costs.
A second prosecution under the operation is expected to reach the courts in the coming weeks.
Authorities warn that illegal cigarettes and vapes pose significant health risks, as the contents are unregulated and unknown. Previous tests on illegal vapes sold in the UK have revealed dangerous substances including arsenic, lead and formaldehyde.
The crackdown extends beyond Operation Hind. On Wednesday 5 November, Yousif Aziz of Station Road, Lutterworth, and Euromarket Lutterworth Ltd were sentenced at Leicester Magistrates’ Court after being found selling illegal vapes. Aziz was fined £584 and ordered to pay £2,500 in costs, while the company received £7,000 in fines, a £2,800 victim surcharge and £2,500 in costs.
Councillor Virge Richichi, cabinet member for regulatory services, said the operation demonstrates the county’s commitment to tackling a growing issue: “This is a growing issue in the county and across the country and this shows that we’re taking action to tackle a real problem in our local towns. Our brilliant Trading Standards team, working with Leicestershire Police, know how people who sell illegal cigarettes and vapes operate. We’ll carry on doing what we can, with the resources we have, to help rid our streets of illegal vapes and sellers.”
Gary Connors, head of regulatory services, added: “Our ongoing efforts make it abundantly clear that anyone engaging in this kind of illegal activity in Leicestershire will be prosecuted. A recent case has shown that the courts are prepared to hand down custodial sentences to those who repeatedly commit these offences. Tackling this problem is vital, both for protecting public health and safeguarding the local economy.”
Residents who suspect a business of selling illegal tobacco or vaping products are encouraged to report it via the Leicestershire Trading Standards webpage.
