Seven vape shops in Lincoln have been issued closure orders after being found selling illegal cigarettes and vapes. These orders, which will last for three months, prohibit the traders from operating their businesses during this period. Notices have been posted on each shop, indicating their closure.
Lincolnshire Trading Standards and Lincolnshire Police conducted a six-month investigation, gathering evidence that led to the seizure of illegal goods from these premises. On 26 and 27 June, Lincoln Magistrates’ Court issued the closure orders under the Anti-Social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014.
During the three-month closure period, no one is allowed to enter the shops except the landlord, and only for maintenance purposes or in case of emergencies. Violations of the closure order could result in extensions, arrests, imprisonments, or fines.
Affected Shops
The following shops have been handed closure orders:
- Mr Chippy, 137 High Street
- High Street Vapes, 390 High Street
- Top Mini Market, 380 High Street
- Universal Vapes, 373 High Street
- Vape Centre, 374 High Street
- Portland Vapes, 11 Portland Street
- Kikush, 371 High Street
Andy Wright, the principal trading standards officer, emphasized the severity of the issue, stating, “These are not shops that sell a few cigarettes or vapes ‘on the side’. Instead, they exist solely to supply illegal goods.” He further added, “We will continue to work with our partners in the police to remove this blight from our town centres.”
This decisive action underscores the commitment of Lincolnshire Trading Standards and Lincolnshire Police to combat illegal trade and improve the community’s quality of life.
