Large - scale Seizure of Illegal E - cigarettes at Saint - Ouen Flea Market in FranceLarge - scale Seizure of Illegal E - cigarettes at Saint - Ouen Flea Market in France

According to the information from Le Parisien on April 1st, a large - scale seizure of illegal e - cigarettes took place at the Saint - Ouen flea market in France over the weekend. The incident has drawn attention to the illegal trade of e - cigarettes and the efforts of the police to combat it.

Local media reported that the police discovered 3,176 illegal e - cigarettes, with a total value of approximately 60,000 euros, in a booth at the flea market. Meanwhile, 7,000 euros in cash was also seized. Two suspects, including the seller at the booth, were arrested by the police. After interrogation, the prosecutor's office decided to fine the seller.

Since February 26th, 2025, the French government has explicitly prohibited the sale or free provision of disposable e - cigarettes, known as "puffs". These e - cigarettes are particularly popular among teenagers due to their sweet flavors, colorful designs, and ease of use. However, this has raised concerns about health and safety. In addition, disposable e - cigarettes are made of plastic, heavy metals, and lithium - ion batteries, which are difficult to recycle. They are designed to be discarded after being used for a few hundred puffs, exerting great pressure on the environment.

The operation was launched by the local patrol team of the Saint - Ouen flea market. During the patrol, the police overheard two men discussing prices inside the booth and then immediately entered, finding that an illegal e - cigarette transaction was in progress. According to informed sources, this booth was the only place in the flea market selling illegal e - cigarettes, and many customers who wanted to buy e - cigarettes were directed there.

After the police took action, the customers who came to buy e - cigarettes were eventually released, and all the seized illegal e - cigarettes will be destroyed. This operation demonstrates the police's firm determination to combat the illegal e - cigarette trade and also reminds the public of the hazards of such products.