LATIF AKAR FROM PERTH FINED FOR SELLING VAPES TO CHILDREN ON SOUTH STREET

A shopkeeper from Perth has faced legal consequences after being caught selling e-cigarettes to minors without proper identification checks. Latif Akar, who owns the My Fone store located on South Street, was observed by police officers on two separate occasions handing over vape products to underage girls, both aged 14, without requesting any form of ID to verify their age.

On the first incident, which occurred around 4:20 pm on December 2, police officers on patrol noticed Akar engaging in a sale with a young girl. The fiscal depute, Elizabeth Hodgson, explained that the girl purchased a vape box from Akar, and he failed to ask for her identification. This lapse in protocol raised immediate concerns given the legal restrictions on selling such products to minors.

The same shopkeeper was caught again just ten days later under similar circumstances. According to the court proceedings, police officers were at the shop for an unrelated matter when they observed Akar conducting another sale to a different 14-year-old girl. This transaction was captured on CCTV footage, confirming the repeated breach of regulations.

During the court hearing, Sheriff Mark O’Hanlon addressed Akar directly, emphasizing the gravity of the situation. He pointed out that during the first incident, Akar was shown some form of identification, but it was deemed insufficient and not a valid proof of age. Despite being advised by police at that time, Akar did not change his approach. The sheriff expressed particular concern over the second incident, where Akar again sold the product without requesting any ID, especially considering the health risks associated with vaping among teenagers.

Sheriff O’Hanlon highlighted the importance of protecting minors from access to tobacco and nicotine products, referencing recent health reports that warn of the dangers of vaping, including potential lung damage and addiction issues. He underscored that such sales are not only illegal but also pose serious health threats to young people.

In light of his actions, Akar, who resides on Pomarium Street in Perth, was fined £600. The court’s decision reflects the seriousness with which authorities are treating violations of age restrictions on tobacco and vaping products, especially in the context of growing health concerns related to youth vaping.