​To curb the spread of illegal vapes Kensington and Chelsea council recently conducted a series of raids on vape sellers.

Recent data from NHS Digital revealed that vaping among secondary school children is on the rise. Of the children who vaped, many of them purchased vapes illegally from shops.

Determined to change the statistics and curb illegal sales, the trading standards team for Kensington and Chelsea council have seized over 3,000 illegal vapes, worth £24,000.

The council has also issued warning letters to 21 traders. After a second warning retailers still selling illegal would face possible prosecution.

Further raids are planned to educate retailers and protect consumers.

Councillor Josh Rendall, lead member for Local Economy and Employment said, “The sale of illegal vapes is a problem throughout the UK and London does appear to be a hotspot. We are concerned that these products are being sold to children and young people in our borough.

“Our trading standards team have been working hard to remove these illegal products from our streets and educating retailers about the risks they pose. We encourage residents to report any concerns about any suspected illegal products to our trading standards team.”

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