A shop in Bedfordshire has been closed after it was found it was selling illegal tobacco and vapes.
According to reports, Central Bedfordshire Council closed EU Market on North Street in Leighton Buzzard, following complaints from local residents, schools and businesses over the last year.
According to the authority, some complaints concerned sales to children. During visits on October 17 and March 14, council officers seized a total of of 1,141 vapes, 167 cigarette packets, and 34 tobacco pouches.
On June 21, the shop sold illegal tobacco to a council officer. Luton Magistrates' Court granted a three-month closure against the business on 5 August, making it a criminal offence to enter the store.
Councillor John Baker said, "We are dedicated to making Central Bedfordshire a safe place to live and work. EU Market's illegal activities have negatively impacted local businesses and residents.
"This closure order shows we take community concerns seriously and will act decisively against businesses causing disruption or engaging in criminal activity. Similar enforcement will be applied to any shops trading in illegal goods or selling age-restricted products to minors.
"Our priority is protecting residents' well-being and supporting legitimate businesses. We thank the community members who provided evidence for this closure."
The council's executive member responsible for public protection added, "This closure order shows we take community concerns seriously and will act decisively against businesses causing disruption or engaging in criminal activity.
"Similar enforcement will be applied to any shops trading in illegal goods or selling age-restricted products to minors."
