Van used as ‘shop’ to sell dodgy vapes, illegal cigarettes and laughing gas

A van suspected of being used as a "shop" to sell dodgy vapes, illegal cigarettes and "laughing gas" has been raided by police.

A huge haul of illicit goods was found inside the vehicle in Longfield Road, Bolton, when police and Trading Standards officers swooped last Thursday (January 18). It came following reports from residents that the van was being used to sell vapes and cigarettes.

In total, officers seized 41 large 666g cannisters of nitrous oxide, 253 non-compliant vapes, and 11,920 illegal cigarettes.

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Black carrier bags were hung on the rear door of the van, which were suspected of being used as “shopping bags” for customers. The van was impounded by Greater Manchester Police and investigations are being carried out to trace its owner.

Nitrous oxide, which was made a Class C drug in November of last year, is a colourless gas, also known as "laughing gas". It can be misused for its psychoactive effects – or to "get a high" – by inhalation.

It is a criminal offence to be found in possession of the drug where its intended use is to be wrongfully inhaled.

Coun Sue Haworth, Bolton Council’s Executive Cabinet Member for Regulatory Services, said: “Those who sell illegal products will find various ways to try and operate but we will continue to crackdown on this. Illegal tobacco, cigarettes, vapes and the misuse of nitrous oxide have a detrimental impact on society.

“Thanks to the work of Trading Standards and the police, this is another significant amount of dangerous and illegal goods taken off our streets. Trading Standards rely on local intelligence as to where suspected illegal trading is taking place, so we encourage residents to get in touch if