Both sold illegal tobacco
Two Exeter businesses have been ordered to close for three months following investigations into organised crime.
The Quick Stop on Fore Street and the European Shop on Sidwell Street were found to have multiple enforcement visits and warnings from authorities, but continued to sell illegal tobacco.
The Quick Stop used an electromagnetic secret door and a hydraulic ram-operated ceiling compartment to hide their stashes.
During their most recent visit, tobacco products were discovered in two vehicles linked to the store, and contraband and vehicles were seized with the help of HMRC and Devon and Cornwall Police.
Just this year, illegal goods valued at more £9,000 have been seized from the Quick Stop.
Trading standards believe the orders for illegal tobacco were made in the shop, then passed to the occupant of a hut using a two-way radio, and the tobacco was then passed through a hole into the shop.
The European Shop made over £4,000 from similar seized goods.
In just six months, 16 stores have been closed or previously shut down by authorities in Exeter, Exmouth, Plymouth, Exeter, and Torquay.
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