Japan Tobacco International (JTI) has announced that, in partnership with TM EYE, the company has delivered another success in securing a conviction against a seller of illegal tobacco.
At Highbury Corner Magistrates’ Court on 13 July, Evtim Yotov pleaded guilty to selling tobacco products that broke UK labelling and packaging laws. Mr Yotov was ordered to pay a total of £1,180 in fines and costs.
Evidence of the offences was obtained via a series of undercover mystery shopping operations conducted outside a car boot sale held at Coles Park Stadium, London N17. Eight illegal products, all 50g packs of roll your own tobacco, were purchased during the investigation.
Charlie Cunningham-Reid, UK Head of Corporate Affairs, said
“We welcome the decision made by the Court in this case. This is the second successful private prosecution supported by JTI against a criminal selling illegal tobacco, which demonstrates the company’s commitment to help tackle the problem of illegal tobacco and we will not hesitate to take similar action in future.”
Mr Yotov was one of two sellers identified during the operation at the venue and had been due to appear in Court on 31 May where the other seller, Gary Williams, was convicted (see JTI press release of 1 June for details). However, Mr. Yotov failed to attend and a warrant was issued for his arrest.
- Mr Yotov, age 35, of Park View Gardens, London N22, sold mystery shoppers illegal tobacco on three occasions in March 2018
- Mr Yotov pleaded guilty to selling products that breached Regulations 5 and 7 of The Tobacco and Related Products Regulations 2016http://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2016/507/contents/made
- Information about TM EYE can be found on their website – www.tm-eye.co.uk
- Details of the other prosecution can be found here.
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