Two men have admitted selling counterfeit tobacco and cigarettes from a shop in Swindon following an investigation by Wiltshire Police.
Barham Kadir Poor, 18, of Morris Street, Rodbourne, and Zhilwan Qaraman, 30, of Bishopton Road, Stockton-on-Tees, appeared before Swindon Magistrates’ Court on 16 July, where both pleaded guilty to offences relating to the sale of counterfeit tobacco and cigarettes.
Qaraman also admitted possessing criminal property and obstructing police.
The charges follow police action at the Lavy Store in Commercial Road earlier this year.
Officers attended the premises in March after receiving reports of suspicious activity. During the operation, counterfeit tobacco products and cigarettes were seized, along with a significant quantity of cash.
A closure order was subsequently obtained for the shop.
Wiltshire Police said the case highlights its ongoing efforts to tackle the illegal tobacco trade and the wider criminality often associated with it.
PC Paul Bezzant said: “Counterfeit tobacco is not a victimless crime. The illegal trade is often linked to organised criminal networks and undermines law-abiding businesses that operate within the law.
“We welcome these guilty pleas and hope they send a clear message that Wiltshire Police and our partners will not tolerate the sale of counterfeit tobacco in our communities. Those involved can expect to face enforcement action and prosecution.”
The two men are due to return to Swindon Magistrates’ Court on 9 September for sentencing.
