A Bradford retailer has been fined after selling cigarettes to a 13-year-old during a Trading Standards operation aimed at cracking down on illegal tobacco sales to minors.
On 6 January 2025, Mr Mohammad Harun Seddighi and Mrs Nazi Seddighi appeared at Kirklees Magistrates’ Court, where they pleaded guilty to selling tobacco to a child at their store, Pound Saver, located on Southfield Lane, Bradford.
The court heard how, in May 2024, a 13-year-old volunteer, accompanied by a Trading Standards Officer, entered the shop and was sold a pack of 20 Benson and Hedges cigarettes for £13.50 without being asked for identification or challenged about her age.
The sting followed a complaint from a concerned member of the public, prompting an investigation by West Yorkshire Trading Standards. Despite being warned about potential test purchases, the illegal sale took place.
Magistrates fined Mr and Mrs Seddighi £80 each, with additional victim surcharges of £32 and legal costs of £500, bringing their total penalties to £612 each. In their defense, the couple admitted full responsibility and acknowledged awareness of the legal age restrictions on tobacco sales. Mr Seddighi has since sold the shop.
David Strover, Trading Standards Manager, condemned the sale, stating, “The flagrant sale of cigarettes to children should not be happening within our communities. We notified this business of the complaint and warned them of possible test purchases. Selling tobacco to minors poses serious health risks, and retailers must implement proper checks to prevent illegal sales.”
He added, “Trading Standards will continue to investigate and conduct undercover operations to tackle underage tobacco sales. We appreciate the vigilance of the public in reporting illegal activity and encourage more people to come forward.”
Councillor Sue Duffy, Deputy Chair of the West Yorkshire Joint Services Committee, echoed this sentiment, stressing the importance of verifying the age of young customers. “Test purchases are vital to ensuring compliance with age-restricted sales laws. Simply asking for ID can prevent harmful tobacco use among minors,” she said.
Residents who suspect illegal trading practices, including the sale of tobacco, alcohol, or e-cigarettes to children, are urged to report their concerns to the Citizens Advice Consumer Helpline at 0808 223 1133. Reports can be made anonymously.
