TWO workers in Torfaen have been prosecuted for selling illegal cigarettes.

Dana Kadir and Amanj Tawfik both sold counterfeit tobacco and cigarettes from Cost Less European Foods on Osborne Road, Pontypool.

The pair were caught following an investigation by the Torfaen and Blaenau Gwent joint trading standards team.

Kadir, of Pisgah Close, in Talywain, Pontypool, pleaded guilty to offences under the Trade Marks Act 1994 at Newport Magistrates Court on October 27 2017.

The 32-year-old was ordered to carry out a 12 month community order with 40 hours of unpaid work, and to pay costs of £300 and a victim surcharge of £85.

Tawfik initially pleaded not guilty and the case was sent to Crown Court. However he later pleaded guilty prior to the case being heard and on April 3 2018 at Newport Crown Court was sentenced to 12 months imprisonment.

Councillor Fiona Cross, who is the executive member for public protection for Torfaen County Borough Council, warned of the dangers of counterfeit cigarettes.

She said: “Counterfeit cigarettes and tobacco are often unsafe as there are no controls governing their production and they often end up in the hands of children.

"Those selling illegal products aren’t too concerned about age verification or asking for ID.

"The sale of these products also undercuts local businesses."

She added: “We would encourage those who find cigarettes and tobacco too expensive to seek assistance from the smoking cessation services and quit rather than turn to illegal sources.

"Contact Stop Smoking Wales on 0800 085 2219, which is a free phone number, for support and advice.”

Anybody with information on individuals selling counterfeit goods can contact the joint Torfaen and Blaenau Gwent trading standards team on 01633 647623 or e-mail trading.standards@torfaen.gov.uk