DENBIGHSHIRE County Council seized more than 2,000 illegal vapes during a 14-month period, new research has found.

Vape Superstore used Freedom of Information requests the UK councils that have the most businesses selling illegal vapes, and the number of illegal vapes/cigarettes seized between January 1, 2023 and February 29, 2024.

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Its study revealed that, in this time, 352,704 illegal vapes were seized on Anglesey, with only Kent County Council seizing more (431,005).

Denbighshire County Council also seized 940 illegal cigarette packets in this time, while there were found to be 32 businesses in the region stocking illegal vapes.

Vapes should only be legally sold to those aged 18 or older.

UK laws also cover the ingredients, strength of nicotine and capacity of tanks.

Some of the recovered illegal vape products had a liquid capacity of 14ml, which is seven times the legal limit.

Studies of illegal vapes discovered high levels of dangerous chemicals such as lead, nickel and chromium.

An estimated one-third of vapes currently sold in the UK are believed to be non-compliant with regulations.

This figure could see a substantial rise with the upcoming disposable vape ban in 2025.

David Phillips, from Vape Superstore, said: “Vaping can be an effective way to quit smoking, but the influx of illegal vapes into the market has created a dangerous black market that consumers aren’t always aware of.

“Our study shows that the illegal vape black market is a big concern across the UK, but particularly in areas like Kent, Lancashire, Anglesey and Swansea - to name a few.

“With raised awareness about the dangers of these products, we believe that consumers will be able to make better informed purchasing decisions in the future.”