A shop that sold illegal tobacco and vapes to children has been closed down for three months.
This following an investigation by Essex Council Trading Standards team and Braintree District Council supported by Essex Police and Witham Town Council.
Yellow Express on Newland Street in Witham was shut on April 22 after Braintree District Council secured a closure order from the courts.
In the lead up to the closure officers from the coucil's Trading Standards team carried out multiple seizures of illicit tobacco and non-compliant vapes in significant quantities.
Investigations also uncovered several instances where the vapes had been sold to underage children. Unregulated tobacco and vape products can pose serious health risks. They are often unsafe and may be laced with harmful substances.
The illegal supply of these products also undermines businesses that operate responsibly and comply with the law.
The Leader of Essex County Council’s Reform UK Group, Councillor Peter Harris said: “We are committed to tackling the supply of illicit tobacco and vapes and the sale of age-restricted goods to children.
“We will use all the tools available to disrupt illegal activity. We are pleased to see this this three-month closure order in place and look forward to continuing more of this important work with our partners at Braintree District Council.
“This sends a clear message to any businesses breaking the law that their actions will not be tolerated. We will do all we can to protect children, consumers and legitimate business activity.”