Birmingham police seize more than 1,000 illegal vapes and counterfeit goods in Erdington

West Midlands Police seized more than 1,000 illegal vapes as well as high-strength alcohol during a community operation in Erdington on Tuesday (November 21).

The police operation aimed to combat the sale of illegal vapes and high-strength alcohol, items that have been linked to anti-social behaviour and public nuisance. Licensing officers conducted inspections of local businesses, leading to the seizure of approximately 1119 illegal vapes and £21,950 worth of counterfeit bags and clothing from one business.

There was a high police presence on Erdington High Street yesterday for the police operation. Officers were joined by a range of partners including Birmingham City Council, West Midlands Fire Service, Erdington Litterbusters, Street Pastors, Street Wardens, St Basil’s, The Hepatitis C Trust and Aquarius which is a charity helping individuals overcome the harms caused by drugs, alcohol and gambling.

Police also recovered a knife which was found discarded in a nearby park.

What has been said about the operation?

Temporary Police Sergeant for Erdington neighbourhood team, David Jermine, said: "The all-out events are a great way for us to engage with the community and tackle the issues that matter most to local people.

"The feedback we have received from residents has been positive and we are committed to continuing these events in the future.

"The seizure of counterfeit goods and illegal vapes is a significant success and sends a clear message that these items will not be tolerated in Erdington. We are also pleased to have recovered a knife from our streets, which could have been used to cause serious harm.

"I would like to thank all of our partners who helped to make the event a success. We are working together to make Erdington a safer and more pleasant place to live, work and visit."