Council Seizes Illegal Vapes Worth £42,000

ALMOST 4,000 illegal vapes were seized in a joint swoop mounted by Tameside Council trading standards officers and the police on November 17. The 3,824 items had an estimated street value of £42,064.

It was organised following complaints and concerns from members of the public and came after the business-owners had ignored advice and warnings.

Illegal vapes are not-compliant with UK regulations and could have higher nicotine concentration levels, contain banned and unsafe ingredients or have oversized tanks for nicotine liquid.

There are also concerns that non-compliant vapes were particularly popular with under-age consumers – because they were cheap and could be bought in places that were less likely to check ID.

Cllr Vincent Ricci, Tameside Council’s assistant executive member with responsibility for enforcement, said: “The vast majority of our traders are honest people who adhere to the law and behave responsibly.

“Sadly, we have a tiny minority who are prepared to flout the rules and they need to know we will always take the necessary action when we deem it to be necessary. The safety of our residents is paramount.

“In this case, investigations are continuing and the relevant enforcement measures will be taken.”

For more on illegal tobacco products and how to report sales visit: www.tameside.gov.uk/adultservices/Tacklingillegaltobacco