Illicit Cigarettes and Vapes Sold in Welsh Shops
In a recent investigative report by Wales Online, it was uncovered that a number of shops across Cardiff, Swansea, and Pontypridd were involved in selling illegal cigarettes and vapes. Through a series of undercover visits, reporters were able to purchase illicit products from several establishments, revealing a concerning trend of black market activity hiding in plain sight.
One particular shop on Cardiff’s City Road, City Vape, stood out as it appeared to have no cigarettes on display but upon inquiry, illegal cigarettes were readily available. The reporter was able to purchase packs of Marlboro and Benson & Hedges for significantly lower prices than legal versions. The shop also offered a disposable vape with a tank capacity far exceeding the legal limit.
The investigation further revealed that out of the nine vape and tobacco shops visited, seven were found to be selling illegal products. These items were not openly displayed but rather retrieved from back rooms or hidden areas within the shops. The sale of disposable vapes with dangerously high nicotine levels raised concerns over the health implications, especially among young consumers.
Illegal cigarettes, sold at a fraction of the cost of legal brands, pose significant risks as they have been found to contain harmful substances such as mites, insect eggs, and even faeces. The ease of access and affordability of these products make them particularly appealing to young people and those on lower incomes, as highlighted by Cardiff Council.
Moreover, the investigation uncovered instances where shop employees offered to sell bulk quantities of illegal cigarettes, highlighting the organised nature of this illicit trade. The shops involved in selling these illegal products could face legal repercussions, as Cardiff Council’s enforcement team has been actively working to remove such items from the market.
The Welsh Government has expressed its commitment to supporting enforcement efforts to combat the sale of illegal vaping and tobacco products. The proposed Tobacco and Vapes Bill aims to provide enforcement teams with additional tools to address this issue and protect public health.
In light of these findings, it is evident that the illicit trade of cigarettes and vapes is a growing concern in Wales. Public health experts have underscored the importance of tackling this problem to prevent underage consumption and safeguard against the health risks associated with counterfeit and unregulated products.
As authorities continue to crack down on shops selling illegal tobacco and vaping products, the public is encouraged to report any information related to such activities. Through collective efforts and stringent enforcement measures, steps can be taken to curb the thriving black market for cigarettes and vapes in Wales, ensuring the safety and well-being of consumers across the region.
If you have information regarding shops selling illegal tobacco or vapes, you can report it to Cardiff Council, while efforts are also underway to address the issue in Swansea and Rhondda Cynon Taf councils. Together, we can work towards eradicating the illicit trade of cigarettes and vapes, promoting a safer and healthier environment for all residents in Wales.