Orpington Shop Shut Down Over Illicit Tobacco and Illegal Vapes
First-Ever Closure Order in Bromley
A local shop in Orpington has been slammed shut following a Trading Standards probe into the sale of illegal tobacco and vapes. Avah Market on High Street became the first business in Bromley borough to face a closure order of this kind after Bromley Magistrates’ Court signed it off.
Illegal Stock Seized in Bust
The investigation uncovered not just illicit products on the shelves but also illegal goods stashed in nearby vehicles. Trading Standards Officers swooped before the court hearing and seized:
- 140 packs of concealed illicit tobacco
- 245 illegal vapes with tanks exceeding the 2ml legal limit
- Products without proper health warnings
Following the court’s approval, Avah Market was officially closed on 28 February.
Council Issues Tough Warning
A council spokesperson hit out:
“We will not tolerate the illegal sale of tobacco and vapes, with the related health concerns well documented. The Trading Standards action to close this store in Orpington follows detailed investigation to both stop the sales and to gather the required evidence to take this legal action.
We are grateful to the police for their support. Whilst it is the first time we have closed a shop in this way, it may not be the last. Others are warned that we will take action to prevent the sale of illegal tobacco or vapes, including stopping underage sales.”
Public Urged to Report Illegal Sales
The council is urging residents to report suspicious sales, especially of illegal tobacco or vapes and underage transactions. You can report concerns via the council’s website or by calling Trading Standards on 0808 223 1133. Authorities promise continued monitoring to keep the borough safe and compliant.
Legal Action Timeline
The three-month closure order was granted on 27 February at Bromley Magistrates’ Court with enforcement beginning the following day. This crackdown sends a clear message: anyone caught selling dodgy tobacco or vapes will face swift and serious consequences.
