Shops selling illegal tobacco told to close again

Two shops have been ordered to close again, weeks after their previous closure orders expired for selling illegal tobacco and vapes.

A police raid on 16 October led to three-month closure orders being reissued to the Stop N Shop and Nida store in Winsover Road, Spalding.

The orders will last until midnight on 16 January and stops anyone from entering the buildings, unless it is for maintenance.

Andy Wright, principal Trading Standards officer said, without the sale of illegal goods, the businesses are "not viable" and "rely on criminal activity for their main source of income".

"Clearly this has a detrimental effect on legitimate businesses who cannot compete on equal terms, pushing many out of business," he added.

If the new orders are broken, those responsible for the shops could be arrested and receive up to 51 weeks in prison or a fine.

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