Officials from Rotherham Trading Standards, in collaboration with South Yorkshire Police, have seized over 5,000 illegal electronic cigarettes, estimated to be worth £50,000 in retail. Shockingly, out of the 20 premises visited, 19 were found to be selling non-compliant products, with many containing higher concentrations of nicotine, some even exceeding the legal limit by 10 times.
Learn How to Identify Fake E-Cigarettes Here.
Councillor David Roche, member of the Adults Social Care and Public Health Cabinet in Rotherham, said: "While many people use e-cigarettes as a legitimate means to quit smoking, these particular products may be becoming more popular among younger audiences, leading to a potential increase in the number of people inhaling large amounts of nicotine and the associated risks.
Councillor Dominic Beck, a cabinet member responsible for transport and environment in the Rochdale Council, has revealed an increase in the availability of illegal goods in the market. He also warned that reports of underage sales have gone up. Councillor Beck stated that the council will partner with local businesses to ensure that they comply with the law. Retailers who continue to sell illegal products will face confiscation and prosecution.
The UK Vaping Industry Association (UKVIA) has warned that illegal trade could harm the category of electronic cigarettes and is calling for fines of at least £10,000 for each instance of illegally selling products or selling to minors. "We also want to see licenses for suppliers," said CEO John Dunne. "These funds can be used to support trading standards.
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