Over 2,300 vapes seized from local retailers in Midlothian

Trading Standards officers have seized a haul of over 2,300 vapes from local retailers in the last year, Midlothian council has revealed.

These were seized mainly because they contain too much liquid nicotine. They were seized from 11 retailers and were investigated following inspections and also tip-offs from local residents and businesses.

The council said over 700 vapes have been sent to a special plant in Falkirk to be destroyed and part recycled, with the rest of the seized vapes being retained for evidence in the event of legal proceedings. A report has been sent to the Procurator Fiscal, public prosecutor in Scotland, against one local trader. Those convicted can face 6-24 months imprisonment.

“I welcome the news of this seizure as the health risks from illegal and unregulated vapes that do not meet safety standards are concerning, especially with regards to the effects on the health of young people,” Cllr Stuart McKenzie, Midlothian cabinet member with responsibility for Trading Standards, said.
“Our Trading Standards team will continue to monitor the situation locally.”