Illegal tobacco seller must return £21,000

A Sheffield shopkeeper involved in selling counterfeit tobacco and vape products must repay 21,000 of his illegal earnings. Barzen Mahmood-Poor, 32, who ran Manor Mini Market, was convicted for multiple offenses and ordered by the court to return the funds within three months.

A shopkeeper from Sheffield involved in the unauthorized sale of tobacco and vaping products has been instructed by the court to return a portion of his profits obtained through illegal activities. Barzen Mahmood-Poor, aged 32, who managed Manor Mini Market, sold counterfeit tobacco and vape items over an extended period.

Case Background

Mahmood-Poor was convicted last year after admitting to ten offenses connected to the sale of illegal tobacco and vape products. He received a six-month prison sentence, which was suspended for 18 months. These violations were discovered during an investigation by the Sheffield City Council Trading Standards team, which focused on identifying illicit trading activities within the city.

Proceeds of Crime Order

During a later hearing at Sheffield Crown Court concerning the proceeds of crime, Mahmood-Poor was required to repay £21,285 within three months. Should he fail to comply with this order, the court stipulated that an additional nine-month custodial sentence would be enforced. While it was established that Mahmood-Poor had earned a total of £228,502.25 from his illegal operations, only £21,284.95 could be recovered from assets available for seizure.

Official Statements

Councillor Joe Otten, chair of the waste and street scene committee, underlined the importance of holding traders accountable for breaking the law:

"Traders who consistently engage in illegal activity and cause harm will be held responsible for their actions, and they must acknowledge the negative impact of their behavior. Purchasers of such products also contribute to the risks posed by items that are incorrectly labeled, contain harmful substances, and exceed legal nicotine limits. It is essential to protect everyone, including children and young people, from the dangers posed by unsafe products."

Enforcement and Public Safety

This case demonstrates the ongoing measures by local authorities to combat the sale of unregulated tobacco and vape products. Sheffield City Council continues to collaborate with Trading Standards officers to identify illegal traders and ensure that those profiting from counterfeit goods face legal consequences. The enforcement strategy is designed to safeguard the public, particularly vulnerable populations, from potentially dangerous and unregulated items.

Further Information

For additional details and updates on enforcement activities, residents can access information through the Sheffield City Council website. Local media outlets also provide ongoing coverage and analysis of regulatory measures and enforcement actions in South Yorkshire.

Sources:

• Sheffield Telegraph
• The Star
• BBC News
• Illicit tobacco trader ordered to repay £21,000

Author: Maya Henderson
Maya Henderson is a journalist focused on technology and startups. She has experience in leading IT publications and excels at conducting interviews and creating visual content.