JTI has secured its second private prosecution of an individual caught selling counterfeit versions of its legitimate tobacco brands at a car boot sale.

At Highbury Corner Magistrates’ Court last month, Evtim Yotov pleaded guilty to selling tobacco products that broke UK labelling and packaging laws.

He was ordered to pay a total of £1,180 in fines and costs.

Evidence of the offences was obtained via a series of undercover mystery shopping operations conducted outside a car boot sale held at Coles Park Stadium, London.

Eight illegal products, all 50g packs of roll your own tobacco, were purchased during the investigation.

Charlie Cunningham-Reid, JTI UK head of corporate affairs, said: “We welcome the decision made by the Court in this case.

“This is the second successful private prosecution supported by JTI against a criminal selling illegal tobacco, which demonstrates the company’s commitment to help tackle the problem of illegal tobacco and we will not hesitate to take similar action in future.”

The conviction was secured in partnership with anti-illicit trade experts TM EYE.