A SHOP in Wellington was shut down after a raid by police and Her Majesty’s Revenue and Customs (HMRC) officers on Tuesday (June 9) when it was served with an anti-social behaviour order.

Danya Store, in High Street, was issued with an interim closure order for 48 hours ahead of a court hearing scheduled for Thursday (June 11) in Taunton Magistrates’ Court when a three-month shutdown will be sought.

Three marked police cars and one unmarked police van with sniffer dogs were seen to descend on the store and officers undertook a search inside.

A notice on the roller shutter doors on the shop front states only the owners can enter the premises ahead of the court hearing.

An Avon and Somerset Constabulary spokesperson said: “Working alongside HMRC and Somerset Council’s Trading Standards, we have served an interim closure order against Danya Store, in High Street, Wellington, which is suspected of selling counterfeit tobacco and e-cigarettes (vapes) to minors.

“Legislation under the Anti-Social Behaviour Act 2003 allows us to issue an interim closure order 48 hours before the application is due to be considered at a court hearing.

“The full application will be heard at Taunton Magistrates’ Court at 11 am on Thursday, June 11.”

Neighbourhood policing Sgt Jon O’Connor said: “This application is based on feedback we have received from the community, and we are particularly aware of the concerns from parents and other members of the public in relation to the sale of certain products from this retailer.

“The shop is currently closed, and we hope the court supports our application, which will result in the closure of the premises for a further three months.

“We hope the closure assures residents that we will act against those who harm our communities.”

Notices on the front of the building give details of support services for drug users.