The survey, conducted by online shop Vapekit, examined the number of searches made each month in the UK over the previous 12 months for illicit vapes.
In the UK, it is forbidden to possess a vape that holds more than 2 millilitres of e-liquid; nonetheless, vapes that hold 15 times the allowed amount of liquid are widely distributed.
The study’s analysis of search data revealed that, on average, Oldham has 235 searches per 100,000 residents each month for illicit vaping items, ranking it 16th in the UK.
According to an Oldham Council spokesman, there should be no use or sale of illicit vapes due to the serious health risks they pose to the general population.
Our Trading Standards staff follows the lead provided by intelligence, and we will prosecute individuals who violate the law.
More than 7,500 illicit vape pens were confiscated by our team and the police in 2023–2024, and this operation is still underway.
Additionally, we want to be clear that selling vapes to anyone younger than 18 is prohibited.
We go shopping and make test purchases on a regular basis.
Report any stores selling illicit tobacco products, e-cigarettes, or sales to minors to Crimestoppers at 0800 555 111 or keep-it-out.co.uk.
Two weeks ago, the Tobacco and Vapes Bill passed its second reading. This bill aims to limit the sale of cigarettes in the nation, meaning that people born in or after 2009 will never be able to purchase tobacco products.
The contentious bill was supported by Jim McMahon, MP for Oldham West and Royton, Debbie Abrahams, MP for Oldham East and Saddleworth, and Angela Rayner, MP for Ashton-under-Lyne and Failsworth, who is the deputy leader of the opposition.
“It’s extremely concerning to see how illegal vapes are becoming more sought after in the UK, with many consumers having no idea that the products they’re buying are untested and potentially unsafe,” stated Guy Lawler, managing director of Vapekit.
Although retailers are required to follow UK vape laws, some dishonest businesspeople on the high street and online freely sell illicit goods without even attempting to confirm that customers are over 18.
There is a concern that the UK black market may expand rapidly when customers there discover they cannot affordably or legally obtain the goods they desire.
If any of the issues discussed in this article are causing problems for you, please do not hesitate to contact us, and we will try to assist you in any way possible.