Appeal for help to tackle problem vape and tobacco sellers in Darlington
Trading standards, civic enforcement officers and Police in Darlington have issued an appeal for help in their ongoing bid to tackle problem vape and tobacco sellers.
The appeal follows the latest joint day of action, as part of Operation Nightstar in partnership with Durham Constabulary, earlier this week when visits were carried out at several local businesses which were the subject of complaints about the possible illegal sale of vapes or tobacco to children.
All of these businesses concerned were given advice and an inspection was carried out to check on compliance. Two shops were found to have illegal goods and 74 illegal, over-strength vapes were seized and those involved will be facing further action.
The visits aim to build intelligence around problem businesses in order for trading standards and its partner agencies to better target their resources in the future when tackling this illegal trade.
Shaun Trevor who led the operation on behalf of Darlington Borough Council’s trading standards team said: “If you sell illegal vapes or cigarettes, especially to children then expect a visit from us. We have further actions planned in order to stem the flow of these illegal products in Darlington and urge other businesses and members of the public to continue reporting their concerns.”
Councillor Amanda Riley, the council’s cabinet member for stronger communities, said: “I would encourage anyone with information to report their concerns about any suspected illegal products to the trading standards team, who take all complaints seriously and will investigate and take action where appropriate.”
Sergeant Paul Vardy, from Darlington Police, added: “Illicit and dangerous tobacco and vapes can not only cause serious harm to people’s health, but the proceeds are often invested into organised crime and can help fund more serious and violent offences.
“It is crucial that we work collectively with our partners to keep our communities safe, and this day of action is an excellent example of that.
“By working collaboratively with our partners at Darlington Borough Council’s trading standards team, we have taken illegal goods off the streets of Darlington, which proves vital in tackling criminality, antisocial behaviour and protecting vulnerable people.
“If you have any information regarding potential criminality in your community then please report it to us – we will always act on intelligence submitted to us. Call us on 101 with any information, or 999 in an emergency.”