Thousands of illegal vapes and cigarettes seized in Weymouth
Trading Standards officers have been carrying out checks
1,000 illegal vapes, more than 18,000 cigarettes and almost 7 kilograms of hand rolling tobacco has been seized in Weymouth.
Dorset Trading Standards have been out with sniffer dogs, following tip-offs from the public.
Three premises were visited across Weymouth as part of a day of action at the end of last month.
Vapes and e-cigarettes are regulated - with restrictions on how much nicotine they contain, and what other chemicals can be used.
But most of the devices seized by Trading Standards flout the rules, with concerns that some are designed to appeal to children.
Officers in Dorset have thanked the public for their support - urging people to continue reporting their suspicions.
A vehicle was also seized from two premises, as they were found to contain suspected illegal goods.
HMRC estimates that the illicit market in tobacco duty and related VAT was £2.8 billion in 2021 to 2022.
The proceeds of this crime are suspected to fund the smuggling of weapons, drugs, and even human beings across the globe.
Anna Eastgate, Corporate Director for Place Services at Dorset Council, said:
“These vital multi-agency operations are designed to disrupt and frustrate the supply of illegal products, which harms the health of Dorset residents and the interests of legitimate businesses. I’d like to thank our colleagues at Dorset Police, the HMRC, and the Regional Trading Standards Illegal Tobacco & Vapes officer, for a job well done.”
Neighbourhood Inspector Sam Goom, of Weymouth and Portland Police, said:
“We are working closely with our partners in Trading Standards to target the illicit sale of illegal vapes and tobacco – most of which end up being used by young people. We will continue to work hard to protect our community from the dangers of these illegal items. This day of action demonstrates our commitment to relentlessly pursue those who offer these items for sale within Weymouth.”
Ben Hayes, Regional Trading Standards Illegal Tobacco & Vapes officer, added:
“It’s vital that we recognise the importance of intelligence, and we thank members of the public for taking the time to report this information to us. Without this, these multi agency operations aren’t as successful. The sale and supply of illegal tobacco funds organised crime and harms your communities. Vaping is less harmful than smoking and can play a role in helping adult smokers to quit. But the message is clear, if you don't smoke, don't vape – and children should never vape.”