Almost 200 illicit vapes seized in North Ayrshire thanks to 'vapedog'

A huge crackdown operation in the North Ayrshire area on Monday saw almost 200 illicit vapes being seized by enforcement agencies.

As part of an intelligence-led, multi-agency activity, police were joined by North Ayrshire Trading Standards and a consumer protection dog and handler who attended several licensed and vape premises across the region on the Bank Holiday.

Boo – a Labrador/German Wirehaired Pointer specifically trained to sniff out nicotine products – was “outstanding” in assisting officials to locate well-concealed illegal products.

Numerous nicotine products were seized, including almost 200 illicit vapes.

While vapes themselves carry their own health implications, non-UK compliant products come with the potential for further risks – high levels of nicotine, falsely advertised “nicotine-free” products, banned ingredients, metals and fire risks.

If you have information on the illegal sale of tobacco or vape products, you can report this to Police Scotland on 101.