Illegal vape seizures soar in BCP as nearly 10,000 products confiscated in a year
We can reveal that over 40 stores in Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole were caught selling illegal vapes last year
The number of illegal vapes seized across Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole has risen dramatically, with new figures revealing Trading Standards officers confiscated almost 10,000 illicit devices last year.
A Freedom of Information request has revealed that BCP Council seized 9,940 illegal vaping products in 2025, a staggering increase of 3,269% compared with 2021, when just 295 devices were confiscated.
The data also points to a sharp rise in the number of businesses found selling illegal products. In 2021, only one shop was caught red-handed by Trading Standards. By 2025, that figure had climbed to 43 stores.
Despite the scale of the problem, the council has only limited powers to shut down offending businesses.
However, the FOI figures show that three premises were temporarily closed during 2025, with such orders typically being used only after repeated offences or where wider criminal activity has been identified.
In June this year, 7 Day Express in Bournemouth was ordered to close for three months after officers seized almost £50,000 worth of illegal vaping and tobacco products. More recently, closure notices were also issued to Rania Mini Market.
While seizures have surged, the number of retailers caught selling vapes to underage customers has remained relatively unchanged.
Councillor Kieron Wilson said the figures highlighted the importance of continued enforcement.
“Keeping residents safe is our priority, and the seizure of nearly 10,000 illegal vaping and tobacco products last year shows just how important this work is,” he said.
“Illegal products can pose serious health risks and are often too easily accessible to children and young people.”
Cllr Wilson added that while the majority of retailers comply with the law, the council would continue to pursue those who do not.
“Most businesses do the right thing and follow the rules. It’s only fair that we support them by tackling those who don’t,” he said.
“We will continue to take action against illegal traders and do everything we can to keep unsafe products out of our communities.”