Shop closed after vapes allegedly sold to children

A shop accused of selling vapes to children and stocking products containing THC - the psychoactive element of cannabis - has been closed by trading standards officers.

Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole (BCP) Council said it had been granted a temporary closure order against Rania Mini Market on Christchurch Road in Boscombe.

It follows joint enquiries by the council's trading standards team and Dorset Police into the sale of illegal tobacco and vaping products at the store.

Kieron Wilson, the council's regulatory services chief, said the closure "sends a clear message that businesses which break the law will face action".

"People rightly expect to feel safe when they come into our town centre," he said.

"We know that illegal activity and antisocial behaviour have a real impact on residents, visitors and legitimate businesses, and we are determined to tackle it."

BCP Council said its investigation into the shop, on Christchurch Road, had been launched "following concerns about persistent illegal activity at the premises".

"Evidence gathered during the operation included allegations of illegal vape sales to children and the sale of products containing THC," the authority said.

It said a three month closure order on the store had been secured, "preventing the premises from operating while partner agencies assess the next steps".

Det Insp Ross McNamee, from Dorset Police, said the order was part of the force's "ongoing efforts to robustly tackle the sale of illegal products".

"This action, along with previous notices served, demonstrates our commitment and serious approach to tackling this type of illegal activity," he added.

The closure order follows similar action carried out on 7 Days Express in Bournemouth in June, as well as on two shops in the town's Triangle area earlier this year.