JTI Helps Secure Third Prosecution Of Illegal Tobacco Seller

Source from:  Talking Retail 09/14/2018

Japan Tobacco International (JTI) has helped secure another private conviction against a seller of illegal tobacco.

Wen Xin Han pleaded guilty to selling tobacco products that broke UK labelling and packaging laws at Camberwell Magistrates’ Court on 6 September. Han received a custodial sentence of one year and 20 weeks, suspended for 12 months.

Evidence of the offences was obtained during a series of undercover mystery shopping operations conducted at Bovingdon market, Hemel Hempstead, between September 2017 and May 2018. Eight illegal products – one pack of cigarettes and seven 50g packs of roll-your-own tobacco – were purchased during the investigation.

In addition, police officers from Hertfordshire Constabulary seized a large quantity of cigarettes and hand-rolling tobacco from Han’s possession in April 2018.

Charlie Cunningham-Reid, UK head of corporate affairs at JTI, said: “We welcome the decision made by the court. Imposing a custodial sentence reflects the seriousness of the crime – selling illegal tobacco damages legitimate business and makes it easier for young people to get hold of tobacco products.

“This is the third successful private prosecution supported by JTI against a criminal selling illegal tobacco, which demonstrates the company’s commitment to help tackle the problem of illegal tobacco and we will not hesitate to take similar action in future.”  Enditem