Najib Ahmadzai, director of Zain Mini Market on Washwood Heath Road in Birmingham, has pleaded not guilty to 11 charges relating to the alleged sale of illegal cigarettes and vape products. The plea was entered at Birmingham Magistrates Court on Thursday, September 10, with both Ahmadzai and his company facing allegations linked to offences said to have occurred on March 19 last year.
Details of the charges
The charges include selling counterfeit cigarettes from major brands such as Lambert and Butler, Richmond, Benson and Hedges, and Rothmans. Ahmadzai is also accused of selling 23 packets of Sobranie Black Cigarettes, which allegedly contravened consumer protection regulations.
Separate charges relate to vape products sold without required health warnings, including FireRose Ex4500 puffs Fresh mint and 110 ENE Legend 3500 puffs Blueberry Bubblegum. The store is also accused of selling R and M Tornado 9000 puffs and Hayati Pro Max 4000+ puffs without proper warnings.
Additional allegations and next steps
A final charge concerns the sale of 50 packets of smokeless tobacco intended as oral snuff, which is banned under tobacco regulations. The case has been adjourned until March 5 next year for trial.
The court proceedings mark a significant step in the legal process, with the trial date now set for the coming year. The allegations, if proven, could have serious implications for the store's operations and its director.
