More than 1.3m illegal vapes, e-liquids and e-cigarettes were seized by UK councils in 2025.
Vape Superstore analysed Freedom of Information data to determine how many illegal vaping products and nicotine pouches were seized across the country, as well as the number of resulting fines issued.
The data found that over 1,318,389 illegal vapes, e-liquids and e-cigarettes were seized in 2025 from 3,494 premises, with 16,635 illegal nicotine pouches seized from 38 local authorities.
The Freedom of Information data also revealed that 174 fines were issued for the seizures, worth £164,012.
Bolton Metropolitan Borough Council seized the most illegal vapes, e-liquids and e-cigarettes in the UK, with 291,707 individual products seized in 2025. Cheshire East Council follows with the second highest number of illegal vape products being seized, with 115,433 individual products found to be illegal. Hillingdon Borough Council seized the third most illegal vaping products at 91,754 individual products. The council issued £3,217 worth of fines relating to the illegal products from 19 different cases.
In 2025, Luton Borough Council issued the highest value of fines relating to illegal vaping products, standing at £46,640. Leicestershire County Council follows with the second-highest value of fines issued in 2025, totalling £27,524. In third spot, Cheshire East Council issued £18,000 worth of fines.
Vape Superstore spokesman David Phillips said the levels of illegal vapes were “alarming”.
“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.”
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