Belle Vue Convenience Store in Hartlepool, Durham, has had its alcohol license revoked after Trading Standards discovered fake vodka containing dangerous substances on the premises.
Five 35cl bottles of counterfeit vodka were found on open sale, along with 194 illegal vapes located behind the counter, on display and in a storeroom.
Subsequent tests found that the vodka contained isopropyl, an industrial solvent ”not fit for human consumption,” Hartlepool Council said.
Consumption of isopropyl can quickly lead to ”alcohol poisoning and in severe cases death,” it warned.
The visit was part of an inspection of off-licenses in the town following a counterfeit alcohol alert issued by the Food Standards Agency.
Mr Amandip Singh Kapoor, premises licence holder and designated premises supervisor of the store, said the vodka was purchased” legitimately” and he was “unaware that the vapes were illegal”.
Councillor Gary Allen said a licence to sell alcohol in Hartlepool comes with the responsibilities of upholding the principles of public safety and the prevention of crime and disorder.
“Any premises caught selling counterfeit alcohol will face having its licence reviewed and, where appropriate, revoked entirely.
“The vodka found at this shop contained a dangerous substance and this highlights how sales of counterfeit products can put people’s live at risk. Sales of counterfeit products, including vapes, also undermine the viability of legitimate businesses and impact the local economy,” he added.
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