In a recent enforcement by Essex Trading Standards, Suleyman Kasakol, the Director of Zagros Market Ltd in Waltham Abbey, has been prosecuted for selling vape products to a minor. The legal action followed a test purchase operation that confirmed the illegal sale.
Kasakol, a resident of Gant Court, Waltham Abbey, admitted the charge at Chelmsford Magistrates Court on Thursday, 9 May. The court imposed a fine of £500 on Kasakol, with an additional victim surcharge of £200. Zagros Market Ltd was fined £2,000, accompanied by an £800 victim surcharge, and the business is also required to cover costs amounting to £2,800.
The operation that led to the charges was conducted in August 2023 after Essex Trading Standards received multiple complaints about the sale of age-restricted products to children at the store located on Highbridge Street. During the sting operation, a 16-year-old volunteer was able to purchase a nicotine-containing e-cigarette from Zagros Market.
This incident wasn’t the first offense for the shop; it had previously been warned in July 2023 for a similar violation involving the sale of a nicotine vape to an underage customer.
Councillor Mark Durham, responsible for Essex Trading Standards at Essex County Council, emphasized the importance of adhering to regulations surrounding age-restricted products:
“While vapes can be used to support adults who wish to quit tobacco cigarettes, they should not be used by those who do not smoke and are not intended for use by children as they are not free of risk. Sellers of age restricted goods including vapes need to ensure that they are vigilant and always ask to see proof of age before making a sale to a young person. They must have robust processes in place, including staff training, to guard against any illegal underage sales.”
Councillor Durham also warned that Essex Trading Standards is committed to enforcing the law rigorously:
“This case sends a strong message that businesses that break the law will be targeted by Trading Standards and persistent offenders will be prosecuted.”
This case serves as a stern reminder to all retailers that compliance with age restriction laws is crucial and that violations will lead to significant financial penalties and legal action.
source: Essex County Council
