Council acts against illegal cigarette and vape sales

In 2025, BCP has already seized over 700,000 cigarettes being sold in high-street shops. 

Alongside this, the council also seized nearly 10,000 illegal vapes, 3,703 pouches of illegal tobacco and £7,000 in suspected criminal cash. 

This joint operation was conducted by BCP Trading Standards, Dorset Police and HMRC, under the name ‘Operation Cece’. 

Commercial premises across Bournemouth and Poole were discovered storing illicit items in bags, cardboard boxes, cabinets and vehicles. 

‘Operation CeCe’ was started to protect the public and young people who purchase these products without being aware of just how harmful they are. 

Money made from illegal tobacco and vape sales is often used to finance other illegal activities such as modern slavery, drugs and trafficking. 

 

 

This crackdown on illegal sales comes in tandem with the UK government banning the sale of disposable vapes on 1 June this year. 

Shopkeeper Tom at the Tidal Vape Shop in Boscombe said he believes these illegal shops are tarnishing the industry and licensed vape companies with a bad name. 

He added: “These corner shops sell to kids, so they then come here thinking we will serve them.” 

Vapes are now smaller, more colourful and have various tastes bringing into question whether they are intended to attract children as buyers.  

When asked if he had any words for the council, Tom said: “Close the illegal markets – legitimate businesses are trying to make their way whilst side hustlers break the law.” 

According to the NHS, vaping has not been around long enough for the long-term risks to be known. 

BCP council are urging people with info to call Citizens Advice Consumer Service on 08082231133 (Mon-Fri, 9am-5pm). Reports can be anonymous.