Illegal vapes recovered from car boot sale at Middlebrook car park

Officers from trading standards filled numerous bags with the amount of illicit goods which were seized at the sale on Middlebrook car park, Horwich.

The raid took place on Sunday.

Read more: Police on scene as Barclays bank targeted

Read more: Group behind bank attack release statement

Read more: Bolton cases before the courts

A spokesperson for GMP Bolton West warned of the dangers of counterfeit items and illegal vapes.

He said: "Counterfeit items are the tip of the iceberg to wider criminality such as money laundering, funding criminal gangs and the exploitation of vulnerable people.

"Illegal vapes are unregulated, potentially dangerous and can be damaging to health and well-being."

Ward councillor Ryan Bamforth was full of praise for the police's efforts.

He said: "This was a great effort, so much seized that they had to make numerous trips with the van."

Bolton Council has taken 12,000 vapes off the streets in the last six months.

Council cabinet member for regulatory services Cllr Sue Haworth also warned of the dangers of them.

She said: “Illegal vapes are unregulated and often contain illegal ingredients which can damage the health of adults and children.

“We continue to look at enforcement options like closure orders that will deliver a long-term solution to combating the problem.

“Since May 2023, we have formally issued three cautions to illegal traders and have sent 50 warning letters for non-compliant vapes and illicit tobacco.

“Tackling the sale of illegal vapes continues to be a priority for this council.”