Closure orders have been imposed on a number of Broadgreen businesses following a large-scale operation which uncovered illegal tobacco and vapes valued at around £150,000.
Wiltshire Police confirmed that four stores have been issued with full three-month closure orders after illicit goods were seized during coordinated enforcement activity last Monday.
The businesses ordered to close are:
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Istanbul Market, Manchester Road
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Zabka Polski Sklep, Manchester Road
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The Romanian and Polish Shop, Manchester Road
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Helsinki Mini Market, Corporation Street
The orders were secured at court following the execution of several warrants at the shops and associated residential flats. The operation involved police officers working alongside Trading Standards, HMRC, Immigration Enforcement, the South West Regional Organised Crime Unit and the National Crime Agency.
During the searches, officers located significant quantities of illegal tobacco and vapes, including large amounts concealed inside hidden compartments within the flats.
Three people arrested on suspicion of selling counterfeit tobacco have since been released on bail while enquiries continue.
The enforcement action formed part of Brighter Broadgreen, an ongoing multi-agency initiative aimed at tackling crime and improving safety within the area.
Neighbourhood Inspector David Tippetts, from Swindon Central South, said the sale of illegal tobacco carried wider consequences.
“The sale of counterfeit tobacco is not a victimless crime,” he said. “It is often linked to serious organised crime, with profits used to fund further criminal activity.
“These products may also bypass quality and safety checks, meaning they can contain dangerous levels of substances such as tar or carbon monoxide.
“The businesses involved have now been closed for three months, which is the maximum period for an initial order, with the option for an extension.
“We will continue to take action against those selling illegal products and ensure they are held to account.”
