UK crackdown on illegal vape sales sees trader sentenced and shop closed

A sole trader operating a stall at Pitsea Market in Essex was handed a suspended custodial sentence after selling a 16‑year‑old a nicotine‑inhalation product without requesting ID. Samir Muliqi pleaded guilty to selling a vape to a minor and to Trade Marks Act offences, receiving a nine‑week sentence suspended for 18 months, a victim surcharge and prosecution costs. Essex Trading Standards highlighted concerns that vaping is highly addictive and not suitable for children.

In Stoke‑on‑Trent, Longton Drinks Limited, trading as a vape shop, was ordered to close for a second three‑month period after council officials seized illegal tobacco products and uncovered test‑purchase violations. Councillor Amjid Wazir said the council will not tolerate the sale of such products, emphasizing the need to keep young people safe. Both incidents illustrate increased enforcement by UK trading standards and local authorities against illegal vape and tobacco sales to minors.