A shopkeeper in Edgware has been fined for selling a vape to a 14-year-old.
Mr Sheroz Talib, who owns Fone Us Edgware, was charged with selling nicotine products to someone under the age of 18, according to Barnet Council’s Trading Standards team.
Willesden Magistrates Court handed down the fine, which totaled £3,334.28, after Mr Talib was observed selling vapes to underage children in early 2022.
He had previously been warned and advised of his responsibilities by Trading Standards.
Barnet Council Leader, Cllr Barry Rawlings, expressed his satisfaction with the verdict, he said: “We’re very pleased with the fine handed to Mr Talib. Barnet Council is working hard to protect its community from crime and helping to protect the health of its children and young people.
“This fine should send a strong warning to those who illegally trade vapes or cigarettes and we will continue to crack down on illegal underage sales.”
According to a study from the charity Mix, which provides support to young people under 25, the proportion of young people who vape has almost tripled to 44% – up from 15% in 2021.
This underscores the importance of measures to prevent underage sales of vaping products.
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