Trading standards team investigate underage sales of disposable vapes and alcohol

Trading standards team investigate underage sales of disposable vapes and alcohol

Trading standards officers have continued working to protect young people in the City by carrying out an under age sales test purchasing exercise, testing for vapes and alcohol. 11 premises were tested as part of an intelligence led exercise but 5 premises sold disposable vapes and 1 shop sold a four pack of Guinness to the council’s 15 and 16-year-old volunteers.

In addition over 300 packets of illegal cigarettes, 3.8kg of hand rolling tobacco and a range of disposable vapes were seized from one of the shops during the exercise.

Councillor Amjid Wazir, cabinet member for city pride, enforcement, and sustainability, said: “Our trading standards team continue to do an excellent job in cracking down on the illegal sale of disposable vapes and alcohol.

“These sales to underage children will not be tolerated. Premises found to be selling these will face consequences.

“Also, the illegal trading of disposable vapes and alcohol usually has strong links to criminal activity and we want Stoke-on-Trent to be a city where everybody feels safe.

“I encourage any resident to report any suspicious activity related to the sale of illegal vapes, alcohol and anything related.”

If any residents or businesses have concerns over the supply or sale of illegal vapes or alcohol, they can report to the trading standards team on 0808 223 1133, visit www.adviceguide.org.uk or call the trading standards hotline on 01782 238884.