Walsall man sentenced after major tabacco operation uncovered as more than 100,000 illegal cigarettes seized
A 'prominent' figure in the illegal tobacco trade in Walsall has been sentenced following the seizure of more than 100,000 illegal cigarettes.
A man who is described as a 'prominent' figure in the illegal Walsall tobacco trade has been sentenced following a major operation by the borough's Trading Standards team.
Shvan Kocher, aged 40, of Lodge Road, Darlaston, appeared at Wolverhampton Crown Court on Thursday, November 7, charged with multiple offences relating to the sale and possession of counterfeit and smuggled tobacco and vape products.
Get the latest headlines delivered straight to your inbox with the Express & Star’s free newsletter
Following a major operation in June 2023, where Trading Standards officers executed a search warrant at Kocher's home, uncovering a large quantity of illegal cigarettes, hand-rolling tobacco, disposable vapes, and £33,000 in cash.
The illicit tobacco goods were found stashed under a bed in a bin bag.
A simultaneous search at a shop linked to Kocher revealed further illicit goods, including 176,000 cigarettes, almost 100 kg of hand-rolling tobacco, 782 disposable vapes, a further 48,000 cigarettes, 5.7 kg of tobacco and 472 vapes.
Some of the items seized were of genuine brands imported from overseas, while others were counterfeits or so-called 'cheap whites', specifically designed for smuggling and sale at a low price.
If sold, the haul of illegal goods was found to be worth around £250,000 in cigarettes and tobacco, and £12,000 in vapes.
The court also heard that £3.5m had passed through Kocher's bank accounts, raising concerns over the origin of his funds.
Councillor Adam Hicken, portfolio holder for enforcement and safe communities at Walsall Council, said: "This was a significant and organised operation that showed complete disregard for the law, public health and legitimate local businesses.
“Our Trading Standards team has worked tirelessly to uncover and dismantle this illegal activity, protecting both residents and honest traders across Walsall.
“We will continue to take strong action against anyone involved in the sale or supply of counterfeit or unsafe products."
Kocher was found guilty of offences and was sentenced to 21 months' imprisonment, suspended for two years.
He was also ordered to serve 200 hours of unpaid work and required to complete 20 Rehabilitation Activity Requirement days.
