£50k of illegal tobacco, vapes seized in Longton

About £50k of illegal tobacco and vapes were seized in Longton last week as Stoke-on-Trent City Council teams conducted another under-age test purchasing operation, where a test purchase for vapes was attempted at a business premise in Longton.

According to Stroke-on-Trent council, a R&M Tornado 9000 disposable vape was purchased by two male volunteers both aged 15 years old. Both volunteers were asked their age and when they advised they were 15 the seller continued the sale. In addition, the vape was 15 times the legal maximum tank size of 2ml which equates to around 600 puffs.

Upon inspection, after the sale a large number of illegal tobacco products and vapes worth £50,000 were seized after being found concealed on the premises.

Seized products included 11 different brands of cigarettes that were counterfeit, Non-Duty Paid, non-standardised packaging, and displayed incorrect health warnings. Seven different types of branded disposable vape were also seized which were oversized and had incorrect health warnings marked on the packaging.

Councilor Amjid Wazir, cabinet member for city pride, enforcement, and sustainability said, “We are deeply concerned about the prevalence of illegal tobacco and vape sales within our community, particularly sales to underage shoppers. The sale and distribution of these products not only violate national laws but also pose significant health risks, especially to our young people who are particularly vulnerable to the harmful effects of these substances.

“We urge all residents to be vigilant and report, and suspicious activities related to the illegal sale of tobacco and vape products to the city council. Your cooperation is essential in safeguarding the health and well-being of our community.”