Illegal tobacco profits go up in smoke

Illegal tobacco seized

A former company director from Heywood has been sentenced after a specialist sniffer dog helped uncover an illegal haul of tobacco – including a stash in the ceiling of a bathroom – during a raid on an Oldham town centre shop.

Officers from Oldham Council’s Trading Standards used statutory powers to enter Oldham European Store Ltd in July 2018 after receiving a tip off from members of the public about illegal tobacco products being sold.

Officers and the dog found more than 11,720 cigarettes and 3.2kg of hand rolling tobacco – with an estimated street value of £2,920 – that was hidden around the premises.

Former director, Aram Mohammady, of Bury Street, Heywood, later pleaded guilty at Tameside Magistrates’ Court for offences under the Trade Marks Act 1994 and the Standardised Packing of Tobacco Products Regulations 2015 in relation to illegal tobacco.

On 21 March, the 41-year-old was sentenced to a 12-month community with a requirement that he completes 100 hours of unpaid work. There was also a victim surcharge of £85.

The company was also sentenced on the same day after the case was proved in its absence when a representative did not appear in court.

Magistrates handed down a fine of £3,850, awarded costs of £1,585 plus a victim surcharge of £170.

All tobacco seized has been forfeited and will be destroyed.

Helen Lockwood, Deputy Chief Executive of Oldham Council, said: “Our officers will continue to gather intelligence and visit premises and if we find evidence that illegal tobacco is being sold then we will take action.

“Selling illegal tobacco is not a victimless crime.  It is usually poor quality and is sold cheaply, meaning it is easier for children to buy - lining the pockets of criminals.”