Cracking down on illegal trading – A successful Trading Standards operation

A series of recent trading standards raids have resulted in the confiscation of a significant amount of counterfeit and unsafe goods

In a resounding victory for consumer protection, a series of recent trading standards raids conducted by the Southampton City Council Trading Standards team alongside Hampshire Police on Saturday 7 September have resulted in the confiscation of a significant amount of counterfeit and unsafe goods, as well as the apprehension of several individuals involved in illegal trading activities.

These coordinated efforts have not only curtailed the distribution of substandard products in our communities, but also sent a clear message that unscrupulous trading practices will not be tolerated.

Two businesses in St Mary’s were found to be selling vapes to children, illegal vapes and smuggled or counterfeit tobacco products, along with counterfeit goods. The Trading Standards Team seized over 1,700 illegal vapes and more than 2,000 illicit cigarettes, together with counterfeit watches, handbags and scarves, with a retail value in excess of £100,000. Trading standards are now preparing to prosecute the businesses.

Cllr Kataria, Cabinet Member for Compliance and Leisure said:

“The success of these trading standards raids can be attributed to the diligent investigative work and swift action taken by the Southampton City Council Trading Standards team in collaboration with Hampshire Police. By targeting the sources of illicit trading activities and removing harmful products from circulation, these efforts have undoubtedly safeguarded the public from potential harm.”

These raids success and impact of recent trading standards raids while emphasizing the commitment to consumer protection and collaboration with the community. For further information go to our Trading Standards webpage.

Restricting access to illicit tobacco products in Southampton is vital for safeguarding the health of city residents, especially young people, as the use of tobacco products often begins in adolescence. Stopping smoking is one of the best things you can do for your health. Vaping nicotine using reputable products is much less harmful than smoking tobacco. But if you do not smoke, do not vape. It is not completely harmless, and the long-term effects are unknown. Illicit vapes can be very unsafe.

Illegal products will be confiscated and destroyed, with enforcement actions taken against businesses found peddling illegal tobacco and vapes.

Remember, it is illegal to:

• Supply counterfeit or non-duty paid tobacco products
• Supply tobacco products lacking the required health warnings, including images
• Supply disposable vapes containing over 2ml of nicotine liquid
• Supply disposable vapes or e-liquid containing over 20 mg/ml of nicotine
• Sell e-cigarettes or e-liquid to individuals under 18 years of age
• Provide tobacco products to individuals under 18 years of age

For further details, visit the E-cigarettes: regulations for consumer products section on the GOV.UK website.