Two Ely vape shops closed for selling illegal tobacco
There have been a number of complaints and several seizures of illegal tobacco and vapes
Two vape shops in Ely have been issued closure orders after selling illegal tobacco.
Cambridgeshire Constabulary say Little Europe in Coronation Parade and the Vape Shop in Fore Hill, were ordered to close for three months following a number of complaints and several seizures of illegal tobacco and vapes.
Cambridge Magistrates’ Court granted the order until 1 July.
PC Joe Dockerill, from the East Cambridgeshire neighbourhood team, said: “We applied to the courts for these businesses to be closed following persistent issues in the stores around the selling of illegal vapes and tobacco.
“Circumstances such as these are often a front for organised criminality and anti-social behaviour which has detrimental effects in our communities. As a force we are committed to tackling organised crime, working alongside partner agencies including Trading Standards and the local council, but most importantly, members of our communities.”
The closure order states both shops must be closed in accordance with the Anti-Social Behaviour and Policing Act 2014. No one is permitted inside either premises except the East Cambridgeshire District Council and the emergency services for the duration or the order.
If anyone is found on the premises unlawfully they could be arrested.