HSA suspends 14 errant tobacco retailers
The Health Sciences Authority (HSA) announced the suspension of 14 tobacco retailers on Wednesday for selling tobacco to underage youth.
The offenders were prosecuted and convicted between March and July this year. Their licences will be suspended for six months from 1 September 2011 to 29 February 2012.
While two of the 14 outlets cancelled their licences before the suspension takes effect, they will not be able to sell tobacco products or apply for a new tobacco retail licence during the six-month suspension period.
All 14 retail outlets have also been fined between $1,500 to $2,500.
In a statement, HSA reminded all tobacco retailers that they are responsible for all transactions of tobacco products carried out by their outlets as well as for the actions of their employees.
Under the Tobacco (Control of Advertisements and Sale) Act, anyone caught selling tobacco products to people under 18 can be fined up to $5,000 for the first offence and fined up to $10,000 for the second or subsequent offence.
Members of the public who have information on the illegal sale of tobacco products to underage persons can call the Tobacco Regulation Branch at 62138930 or 62138931 during office hours.
