A man from Newcastle has been prosecuted and fined after abandoning a vehicle in Clavering Place, Annfield Plain, that was involved in the illicit supply of tobacco.

The vehicle, which was left unattended, became the focus of a Durham County Council Trading Standards investigation. Officers recovered approximately £2,700 worth of illegal tobacco products from the car.

 Enforcement Action Ignored

The registered keeper, identified as Ali Mohammed, of Beech Grove Road, Newcastle, was initially issued a 7-Day Notice and a Fixed Penalty Notice for abandoning the vehicle.

However, Mohammed failed to pay the penalty, prompting Trading Standards to prepare a prosecution case for court. The matter was proven in his absence.

Court Fines Total Over £650

Mohammed has now been ordered to pay a total of £657.40 in fines and legal costs, following the court’s decision.

Durham County Council, which shared details and an image of the seized vehicle on social media, reminded residents to report suspicious or abandoned vehicles and illegal trading activity.

 Report Suspicious Activity

A Durham County Council spokesperson said:

“We take all incidents of illegal tobacco supply and vehicle abandonment seriously. Residents are encouraged to report any concerns.”

To report suspicious activity:

Call: 03000 260 000

Visit: Durham County Council