G&G Market on High Street in Cradley Heath is at risk of permanent closure after being caught selling illegal cigarettes to a child just weeks after opening in November. The shop's licence holder, Hozan Sharify, will appear before Sandwell Council's licensing committee on July 30, with West Midlands Police and trading standards officials urging that the licence be revoked.
Shop already temporarily closed by magistrates
Earlier this month, Dudley magistrates ordered the shop to close for three months following evidence of ongoing illegal activity. Despite this, police reported that the shop continued selling illicit goods, including to an undercover child operative, showing what they described as a "blatant disregard" for regulations.
West Midlands Police highlighted the wider implications of such sales, stating: "The sale of illicit tobacco and cigarettes is often linked to organised crime including people trafficking and immigration crime, exploitation, evasion of duty and money laundering."
Trading standards find systematic breaches
Trading standards officers conducted multiple successful test purchases at the premises, concluding that "the main purpose of the premises is the supply of illegal cigarettes and tobacco." The shop had been operating under a licence that allowed the sale of alcohol and other goods, but the evidence suggests non-compliance from the outset.
This is the fourth closure order issued to shops in Cradley Heath in recent weeks, as part of a broader crackdown by Sandwell Council against the illegal tobacco trade. The council has been working closely with police and trading standards to target businesses that undermine legal trade and pose risks to young people.
Community impact and ongoing investigation
The availability of illegal cigarettes to minors is a serious concern for local residents, who have expressed alarm at the ease with which such products can be obtained. The sale of tobacco to anyone under 18 is illegal under UK law, and shops face severe penalties including licence revocation.
Sandwell Council's licensing committee will consider the evidence on July 30. If the licence is revoked, G&G Market will be forced to cease all licensed activities, effectively ending its operation. The committee may also impose alternative sanctions, such as suspending the licence for a period or adding conditions.
West Midlands Police have reiterated their commitment to tackling organised crime linked to illicit tobacco. "We are working tirelessly to dismantle these networks and protect our communities," a police spokesperson added.
