A haul of suspected counterfeit tobacco items and a quantity of cash were seized from a vape shop in Newport this afternoon (Wednesday) as part of an ongoing investigation.
Detectives and officers from Hampshire & Isle of Wight Constabulary executed a warrant at a commercial premises on Orchard Street at lunchtime as part of an ongoing joint investigation with the Isle of Wight Council’s Trading Standards team.
It has been confirmed that a number of suspected counterfeit tobacco items were seized from the premises, which sells a variety of vape products as well as household goods such as cleaning materials and even packets of crisps.
Island Echo can also reveal that an unknown quantity of cash was seized from the shop. A Mercedes-Benz car parked nearby was also searched in connection with the raid.
Police say that a 32-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of offering/exposing for hire goods bearing a false trademark.
He remains in custody at Newport Police Station at this time. Enquiries are ongoing.
UPDATE WEDNESDAY – The 32-year-old man arrested has been bailed until 31st December whilst our investigations are ongoing.
There a special place in hell for him he served under age people ‘young girls’ aswell he’s a dirty man he should rot in prison
Counterfeit crisps ?
They need to do the “phone” shop on the corner opposite Tesco next
No they need to land on a lot of the pop up catering establishments and a few well known Island Pubs who launder drug money from so called leading business men on The Island!!.
All shops selling fake goods, illegal tobacco and alcohol and illegal drugs need rooting out. They are ruining our high streets and legitimate retailers cannot compete.
Such shops are also often linked to organised crime, money laundering and exploitation of vulnerable people. They also often employ illegal workers, steal electricity and ignore employment laws.
Honest retailers stand no chance in our crime ridden High Streets.
Well done Trading Standards & the Police.