Hertfordshire among vape seizure capitals - 129 shops caught

The county council identified 129 businesses selling illegal nicotine products during 2025, the fourth highest in the UK.

During the same period it seized 30,825 illegal vapes, e-liquids, and e-cigarettes and 1,452 nicotine pouches. This represented the eighth and fifth highest figures for the country respectively.

Illegal vapes previously seized in Watford (Image: Hertfordshire Police)

Hertfordshire County Council partnered with young people to co-produce a youth-led campaign on the risks of vaping and nicotine addiction during the year, alongside a trading standards drive to seize illegal products from local retailers.

Speaking at the end of 2025, deputy executive member for public health Dr Allison Wren said: “Many young people mistakenly believe that vaping helps with stress, but nicotine dependency can actually increase anxiety and other mental health issues.

“This campaign aims to challenge misconceptions and empower young people to make healthier choices.

A previous policing operation targeting illegal vape sales in Market Street, Watford (Image: Supplied.)

“Our priority is to support our children and young people to be happy and healthy so that they can thrive and achieve their potential, and I’m delighted that young people have been so instrumental in this campaign.

“We urge parents, schools, and young people to be vigilant and report any suspected illegal sales via our website.”

Bolton Metropolitan Borough Council seized the most vaping related products in the country in 2025, while Luton Borough Council took in the greatest monetary value in fines.

Illegal vapes previously seized in Watford (Image: Herts Police)

The figures were obtained through a FOI request by online retailer Vape Superstore.

David Phillips from Vape Superstore said: “The volume of illegal vapes being seized across the UK is alarming.

“Many of these products bypass UK safety regulations and may contain excessive nicotine levels or untested ingredients.

“It’s encouraging to see councils taking enforcement seriously through seizures, investigations and fines to help prevent illegal products from reaching consumers and responsible retailers.”

Youth vaping among 11 to 17-year-olds has nearly doubled since 2019.

Rates are levelling off, however the county council highlighted "signs of growing dependency".  

In Hertfordshire, rates are lower than national figures, but less than 40 per cent of young people believe vaping harms health.