Marian Coseru of Harrier Close and his company Miorita Ltd, which operates from Ripple Road in Barking, pleaded guilty at Barkingside Magistrates’ Court to two offences of possessing tobacco products for supply.
The offences were uncovered during inspections by Barking and Dagenham Council’s Trading Standards team.
Cllr Syed Ghani, cabinet member for enforcement and community safety, said: “This prosecution sends a clear message that selling illegal tobacco in Barking and Dagenham will not be tolerated.
“These products undermine legitimate businesses, fund criminal activity and pose serious risks to public health. Our Trading Standards team will continue to take robust action against those who break the law.”
The first inspection took place on March 26, 2025 and involved officers using specialist tobacco detection dogs. They found and seized cigarettes including Kent, Dunhill, Marlboro and Sobranie.
A second inspection on September 25, 2025 revealed more illicit tobacco under the shop counter and in drawers. This included 180 Kent, 80 Dunhill and 160 Sobranie cigarettes.
None of the products displayed the required health warnings or were approved for sale in the UK.
Before enforcement action was taken, a test purchase by Trading Standards confirmed that illicit tobacco was being sold at the premises. Mr Coseru pleaded guilty on behalf of himself and the company.
This is not their first conviction. On April 18, 2023, both Mr Coseru and Miorita Ltd were convicted of similar offences.
Mr Coseru received a two-month custodial sentence, suspended for 12 months, and the company was fined. Following the latest conviction, Miorita Ltd was fined £2,000 and ordered to pay a victim surcharge of £800 and prosecution costs of £1,412.
Mr Coseru was ordered to pay a victim surcharge of £154 but did not receive a further fine. The total amount to be paid is £4,366.
Source: Original Article
