UK Government to Extend Shop Closure Powers to 12 Months Following BBC Investigation into Illegal Mini-Marts
The UK government announced new powers allowing authorities to close illegal mini-marts, barbers, and vape shops for up to 12 months, doubling the current maximum closure period of six months. The change follows a BBC News investigation exposing drug gangs, money laundering, and other organized crime linked to shops selling illegal cigarettes, vapes, and drugs on British high streets. The measure aims to give investigators more time to gather evidence and prevent rogue operators from quickly reopening, with support from Trading Standards officers who have long lacked sufficient enforcement tools.
The UK government announced extended closure powers for illegal retail operations following a nine-month BBC News investigation into organized crime on British high streets. Under current law in England and Wales, authorities can close shops for a maximum of three months, extendable to six months using anti-social behaviour legislation; the new powers would allow closures of up to 12 months. The BBC's reporting exposed drug gangs, child sexual exploitation, money laundering, and immigration crime linked to shops selling illegal cigarettes, vapes, and drugs, with particular focus on Birmingham's Soho Road. Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood praised the investigation and stated the government would not tolerate such criminality, which she said undermines public faith in local areas and democracy. Trading Standards officers have welcomed the change, noting that extended closures would make it less financially viable for unscrupulous operators to simply wait out orders and would incentivize landlords to vet tenants more carefully. Police raids documented during the investigation found illegal cigarettes, prescription drugs, and weapons, with officers describing the targeted areas as experiencing open drug dealing and violence.
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Illegal mini-marts to shut for up to 12 months under law change prompted by BBC
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