Genk Mayor Closes Store for 2 Months Over Illegal Snus Sales
- During an inspection in Genk, illegal snus and e-cigarettes were discovered in a store.
- The shop owner intends to appeal the two-month closure, stating the products were leftover stock.
- The incident highlights ongoing enforcement against illegal tobacco sales in Belgium.
In Genk, Belgium, Mayor Wim Dries conducted an inspection that revealed illegal sales of snus and e-cigarettes in a local store. This discovery led to the decision to close the establishment for two months. The shop owner plans to appeal the closure, arguing that the products were remnants from the previous year and were intended for return to suppliers. Despite this claim, the store has a history of violations, including a previous incident where seven kilos of snus were found. Snus, a tobacco product known for its addictive properties, remains banned in Belgium due to health concerns. The mayor's actions reflect ongoing efforts to enforce regulations against the sale of addictive substances, particularly in light of the shop owner's past infractions, including selling an e-cigarette to a minor. The closure serves as a reminder of the strict measures in place to combat illegal tobacco sales in the region.