Headline
Headline
Back to London, UK News

Shops using WhatsApp to evade vape raids - council

London, UKLocal News

Hounslow Council's Trading Standards seized over £33,000 worth of illegal vapes and tobacco in September, revealing that shop owners use WhatsApp groups to warn each other about raids. Officers conducted raids at 16 locations in Chiswick, Feltham, and Hounslow High Street, seizing 4,859 illegal vapes and 3,806 illegal cigarettes. One shopkeeper was caught on CCTV attempting to hide his stock by throwing it onto a roof when alerted about the raids. Labour councillor Pritam Grewal stressed the health risks posed by unregulated tobacco and vapes, which can lead to nicotine addiction among youth. Hounslow Council has already seized over £400,000 worth of illegal tobacco in 2024 alone, indicating a significant ongoing issue.

The council's efforts are part of Operation CeCe, a national initiative targeting illegal vape sales. Authorities warn that these unregulated products may contain dangerous substances, including arsenic and lead. The council pledges to continue its crackdown to protect community health and safety.

Related Articles

London, UKLocal News

Gardeners unearth stolen phones left by snatchers

Volunteers at The Phoenix Garden in central London reunite theft victims with stolen phones buried in flower-beds. The garden's proximity to the West End makes it a target for thieves, who stash devices for later collection. Local police have increased patrols, leading to a 16% reduction in phone theft since April.

London, UKLocal News

About 150 firefighters at London warehouse fire

About 150 firefighters battle a significant warehouse fire in west London that has caused residents to report "huge explosions." The London Fire Brigade dispatched 25 fire engines to the scene, where three-quarters of the two-storey building is engulfed in flames. No injuries have been reported, but local residents are advised to keep windows and doors closed due to heavy smoke.

London, UKLocal News

Physio backs charity that helped her after accident

NHS physiotherapist Chloe Boobier, 30, suffered severe injuries after being struck by a taxi in February 2021. She credits Day One Trauma Support for aiding her recovery and now advocates for the charity, which aims to raise £30,000 to support others with life-changing injuries.