How Are Crime Gangs Taking Over Our High Streets?

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The Rising Tide of Illegal Tobacco and Vaping in Newport: A Community Struggles Against Crime

In Newport, a troubling trend has emerged: the alarming rise of illegal tobacco and vape sales. Over the past nine months, 19 shops along a one-mile stretch have been shut down for selling these illegal goods, revealing a deeper issue of criminality that is striking fear into the local community. Steve Hay, a key member of the Trading Standards team, describes the situation as “shameful.” He believes that the sale of illegal products is not just a crime, but a significant problem that undermines the fabric of the community.

The issue extends beyond the closure of these shops. In South Wales, reports indicate that criminal gangs are heavily involved in this trade, utilizing forced labor and engaging in various illegal activities. This includes open drug dealing and intimidation, creating an environment of fear among local residents and business owners alike.

According to data compiled from 169 local Trading Standards teams, illegal cigarettes, tobacco, and vape products were seized from 3,624 shops across England, Scotland, and Wales during the 2024-25 period. Many of these seizures occurred in convenience stores and vape shops, but alarming findings have also been reported in unexpected places like beauty salons and even carpet repair shops. The widespread nature of this issue indicates a systemic problem that requires immediate attention.

The Impact on the Community

Residents near these shops have expressed their growing fears. They report feeling unsafe due to the intimidating atmosphere that surrounds these establishments. Erol Kaya, who runs a legitimate international supermarket in Newport, shares his frustration. Having lived in South Wales for 26 years, he has witnessed the brazen sale of illegal goods on a daily basis. “I’m not happy,” Kaya states, highlighting the disparities between legitimate businesses that pay taxes and those that operate outside the law.

This sense of fear is compounded by reports of violence and criminal behavior. For instance, one witness described an acid attack that stemmed from a dispute involving mini-market staff. Such incidents only reinforce the notion that the illegal tobacco and vape trade is intertwined with broader criminal activities.

The Struggle for Enforcement

Despite the efforts of Trading Standards, the mechanisms in place to combat this issue are limited. In Newport, local authorities can shut down offending shops, but these closures are often temporary. In the past year, fewer than 300 shops across the UK were permanently closed for selling illegal goods. This poses a significant challenge: even when shops are shut down, criminals may simply relocate their operations to a vacant site nearby, continuing the cycle of crime.

For officers like Nazir Ali from Barking and Dagenham Trading Standards, the task becomes even more daunting when business owners are elusive. During inspections, they often find hidden stashes of illegal tobacco and cigarettes, yet current legislation requires proof of antisocial behavior to enact closures. In the 2024-25 period, Barking and Dagenham reported the highest number of illegal goods seized, but no permanent shop closures were reported, highlighting the inadequacies of the current system.

Wider Implications of Illegal Trade

The illegal trade in tobacco and vaping products does not just harm public health; it also has broader implications for the community and economy. HM Revenue and Customs notes that this trade undermines legitimate retailers and funds wider criminal activities, costing public services nearly £72 million in the 2023-24 financial year. The existence of these illegal markets erodes trust within communities and jeopardizes the safety and well-being of residents.

Furthermore, the connection between illegal tobacco trade and organized crime cannot be overlooked. According to local Trading Standards officers, criminal gangs, often involved in drug trafficking, are also heavily invested in the tobacco trade. This interconnectedness complicates enforcement efforts and poses significant risks to those tasked with combatting these illicit operations.

The Human Cost of Illegal Trade

While the statistics paint a grim picture, the human stories behind them are even more troubling. Several shop workers in South Wales, who requested anonymity due to fear for their safety, shared their experiences of living amidst rampant drug dealing and violence. One worker described the disturbing normalization of drug dealing in broad daylight, while another recounted a chaotic scene involving an acid attack.

Daniel, a local resident, expressed his concern about the impact of this environment on his family. “It doesn’t make me feel safe. I’ve got kids,” he said, contemplating a move back to Hong Kong due to the deteriorating conditions in Swansea. His sentiments echo those of many others who feel trapped in a cycle of fear and uncertainty.

The Role of Law Enforcement

Law enforcement’s role in addressing the illegal tobacco trade is crucial, yet fraught with challenges. Officers like Rhys Harries from Swansea describe the dangers they face while conducting raids. With threats of violence and incidents of vandalism against their vehicles, the task of enforcing the law becomes increasingly perilous. The situation is exacerbated by the presence of immigration crime, as illegal workers are often exploited within this illicit trade.

In one raid, an asylum seeker without work rights was arrested, highlighting the complex intersection between immigration and illegal trade. This raises questions about the broader social implications of such crimes and the need for comprehensive solutions that address both law enforcement and community support.

Legislative Challenges and Community Response

Local authorities are often hamstrung by the limitations of existing legislation. Closure orders can only be issued if a shop is proven to be a serious nuisance, leaving many establishments operating in a gray area. While tougher regulations introduced in 2023 have increased fines for offenders, they may still be insufficient compared to the profits generated by the sale of counterfeit goods.

In response to the growing crisis, the Home Office has announced plans to increase neighborhood patrols in over 500 town centers. This initiative aims to crack down on the sale of illegal tobacco products, yet many residents are left wondering whether these measures will be enough to restore safety and security in their communities.

Community Perspectives and Future Directions

Amidst the chaos, community members like Erol Kaya are left questioning the future of their neighborhoods. Having established his business in Newport, he is deeply concerned about the implications of the illegal trade on his family's safety and the overall community. “If this country is not strong, it’s no good for the future,” he reflects, underscoring the need for a collective effort to combat these issues.

As the battle against illegal tobacco and vaping continues, it is evident that a multifaceted approach is necessary. This includes clearer legislation, increased resources for enforcement, and community engagement to address the root causes of the problem. Only then can Newport and similar communities begin to reclaim their streets from the grip of criminal activity.

FAQs

What are the penalties for selling illegal tobacco and vape products?

Those convicted of selling illegal tobacco and vape products can face hefty fines, with recent legislation allowing for penalties up to £10,000. However, the financial gains from these illegal activities often exceed the potential fines, creating a challenge for enforcement.

How can local authorities combat illegal tobacco sales?

Local authorities can apply for closure orders under antisocial behavior legislation, but they must prove that a premises is a public nuisance. Increasing visibility through neighborhood patrols and community engagement can also help deter illegal activities.

What role do criminal gangs play in the illegal tobacco trade?

Criminal gangs are heavily involved in the illegal tobacco trade, often managing operations that include the trafficking of counterfeit goods and drugs. This interconnectedness complicates enforcement and poses significant risks to law enforcement officers.

How does the illegal tobacco trade affect public health?

The illegal tobacco trade poses significant public health risks, as unregulated products often contain harmful substances. Additionally, it undermines legitimate retailers and contributes to broader health issues within communities.

The situation in Newport illustrates the urgent need for action against the illegal tobacco and vape trade. As communities grapple with the repercussions of this ongoing battle, it raises questions about the effectiveness of current strategies and the potential for a safer future. How can we work together to address this pressing issue? #IllegalTobacco #PublicHealth #CommunitySafety

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