Trading Standards Officers from Bedford Borough Council have secured a three-month closure order for K-Crystal Shop Limited on Midland Road in Bedford. This follows repeated breaches relating to the sale of illegal tobacco and vape products
Following the service of a closure notice on business on Tuesday 11 February 2025, an Order, granted by Luton Magistrates Court on Wednesday 12 February 2025, prohibits the premises from operating as a retail business during this time and from anyone entering the premises without prior agreement with the authorities. Breach of the order is a criminal offence and can result in a fine and / or imprisonment for up to 51 weeks.
Following complaints from the public investigations led by Bedford Borough Council Trading Standards Officers, supported by HRMC and Bedfordshire Police, uncovered persistent criminal behaviour despite repeated advice and warnings being issued.
Investigations that included test purchases identified the repeated sale of illegal tobacco and vapes. One visit in October 2024 resulted in over 19000 illegal cigarettes and more than 1000 illegal vapes being seized, on another occasion a vape was sold to a 15-year-old.
Investigations identified increasingly sophisticated measures to conceal illegal products, with specialist tobacco detection dogs identifying illegal products stored within a false wall and other locations in the premises.
The closure order is a significant step forward in protecting the community from the harm associated with these products. This activity was delivered as part of Operation CeCe, a National Trading Standards initiative in collaboration with HMRC, aimed at tackling the illegal tobacco trade nationwide.
Councillor Phillippa Martin-Moran-Bryant, Portfolio Holder for Housing and Regulatory Services, said; "The sale of illegal tobacco and vapes poses a serious risk to public health, undermines legitimate businesses, and can often be linked to wider criminal activity.
“We will not tolerate such practices in Bedford Borough and will continue to take robust action to protect our residents. This closure order sends a clear message that we are committed to tackling this issue and ensuring a fair and safe trading environment for all."
This successful application for a closure order reflects Bedford Borough Council’s ongoing commitment to tackling the sale of illegal tobacco and vapes. This case underscores the importance of community intelligence and the effectiveness of partnership working between local authorities and enforcement agencies.
Bedford Borough Council encourages residents to report any concerns regarding the sale of illegal tobacco or vape products to ehadmin@bedford.gov.uk
By working together, we can ensure that businesses adhere to responsible practices and safeguard our community from potential harm.
Find further advice for consumers and businesses in Bedford Borough at www.bedford.gov.uk/business/trading-standards