Illegal Nicotine & E-cigarette Products Seized in Joint Action

Sep.08.2022
A joint operation by the police and trading standards seized illegal nicotine and e-cigarette products worth over £5,000.

A joint operation conducted by the police and the Trade Standards department led to the seizure of illegal nicotine and vaping products worth over £5,000 from a shop.


Due to reports of anti-social behavior (ASB), noise disturbance, drug dealing, and a large amount of intimidating group gatherings outside, Tower Hamlets Council has received complaints from residents about Cloudz Vapez, located on Roman Road. The report states that this shop sells illegal products at the counter, such as trademark and counterfeit e-cigarettes, as well as e-cigarettes that violate current legal nicotine restrictions.


The Trade Standards and Metropolitan Police conducted a raid on the premises, seizing 320 illegal nicotine and e-cigarette related products with an estimated value of over £5,000. Initially, the shop owner refused to provide his details to the police, but they were able to track him down through the Metropolitan database. The shop owner has received a warning from the Trade Standards and will now undergo a thorough investigation.


Chief member of Environment and Climate, and member of parliament Kabir Hussain stated:


Shops selling fake electronic cigarettes are facing real danger because they may contain harmful substances mixed with nicotine. Some e-cigarettes being sold also contain nicotine levels higher than what is allowed in the UK, posing a danger to users. The low prices of e-cigarettes have attracted young people and encouraged them to develop habits that can have lifelong effects on their health and well-being. During the raid, members of the public approached police officers to express their gratitude for their positive work. The operation is expected to send a strong message to shop owners and others selling illegal products and encourage ASB to show zero tolerance for this situation in our wards. This is a typical example of the importance of understanding local issues and the power of partnerships.


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