(Image: Hartlepool Borough Council)
A shop worker in Hartlepool has been convicted after selling counterfeit tobacco to undercover officers.
Mohammed Tariq Tofiq, 32, formerly of Sheriff Street, Hartlepool, admitted four offences at Teesside Magistrates’ Court after a council Trading Standards investigation.
Tofiq sold counterfeit cigarettes to undercover Trading Standards officers three times in October 2025 while working at the European Supermarket on Murray Street.
European Supermarket, where Mohammed Tariq Tofiq was caught selling counterfeit tobacco products in October 2025. (Image: Hartlepool Borough Council)
He also admitted possessing counterfeit hand-rolling tobacco intended for sale.
Tofiq pleaded guilty to three offences under the Trade Marks Act 1994 for selling counterfeit cigarettes and one offence of possessing counterfeit tobacco with intent to sell.
The European Supermarket was issued with a closure order following illegal tobacco sales in November 2025, and Tofiq was ordered to pay £1,016 in fines and costs.
Councillor Amanda Napper said: "This conviction sends out a clear warning to anyone who thinks they can profit from the sale of illegal tobacco in Hartlepool.
"Our Trading Standards officers are watching, they will investigate and will take action."
"Counterfeit and illicit tobacco undermines responsible local businesses which obey the law, while its sale can also generate profit and infrastructure that organised crime groups can use to finance and facilitate wider criminal activity in our local communities."
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Cllr Napper added: "Cheap illegal tobacco also undermines the enormous amount of work being done by the Council and our health partners to reduce smoking and the serious harm it causes.
"Of particular concern is the threat it poses to children and young people. It can be more accessible to those who are underage, potentially providing a route into smoking and addiction."
Anyone with information about the sale of counterfeit tobacco products is asked to contact Citizens Advice Consumer Service on 0808 223 1133.