Key Points
- Hampshire County Council reports 116,000 illegal vape/tobacco items seized in 2025
- Southampton (UK) raids cited for Jan. 27, targeting illegal tobacco and vapes
- Portswood operation confirmed about £5,500 in illegal products seized
- Enforcement used inspections and test purchases, often with police and youth volunteers
- Officials warn illicit vapes/tobacco may contain unknown substances and excess nicotine
2Firsts, FEB. 2, 2026
According to Hampshire County Council, its Trading Standards team confiscated a record 116,000 illegal vape and tobacco products in 2025, with the haul valued at about £138,000.
The council also pointed to joint shop raids in Southampton on January 27, as enforcement efforts continued across the area. One of the most visible operations unfolded in Portswood, where police and Trading Standards officers were seen outside Portswood Euro Market, and officials confirmed the seizure of roughly £5,500 worth of illegal products.
Cllr Kirsty North, Hampshire’s cabinet lead for universal services, said rogue traders are exploiting rising demand for vapes and tobacco, undercutting legitimate businesses and potentially endangering public health. She said the council has prioritised frontline resources to disrupt black-market supply chains and urged residents to report concerns, including suspected underage sales.
Trading Standards said seizures were made through inspections and test purchasing, often in partnership with Hampshire Police and with the support of young volunteers. Officials warned that illegal vapes and tobacco can pose significant health risks, as they may contain unknown substances and can carry higher nicotine levels than legally permitted.
Consumers were advised to watch for tell-tale signs such as poor-quality packaging, spelling mistakes and missing health warnings. Legitimate products typically carry correct safety markings and manufacturer details, while illegal goods often do not. Hampshire County Council encouraged anyone who suspects illegal or counterfeit sales — or sales to minors — to report it via the Trading Standards website.
Image source: Hampshire County Council
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