Private investigators hired by JTI have stopped an illicit tobacco trader.

TM Eye gathered evidence before bringing a private prosecution against Wen Xin Han for selling illicit tobacco from Bovingdon Market in Hemel Hempstead.

Han received a suspended 72-week custodial sentence and had a “large quantity” of illegal tobacco seized by the police.

JTI head of corporate affairs Charlie Cunningham-Reid said: “Imposing a custodial sentence reflects the seriousness of the crime – selling illegal tobacco damages legitimate business and makes it easier for young people to get hold of tobacco products.”

The judge’s decision represents the third successful prosecution led by JTI.

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