Foreigner arrested for vape trafficking in Male
Additionally, a shop in Galolhu was searched, leading to the seizure of a significant quantity of vapes allegedly linked to illegal sales.
A foreign national has been arrested following a tip-off regarding his involvement in vape trafficking in Male.
According to the police, a search was conducted at the suspect’s residence and the café where he was employed. During the operation, authorities seized:
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84 vape cartridges
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Money suspected to have been earned from vape sales
The suspect, identified as MD Abu Sufyan, 27, from Bangladesh, was taken into custody.
Additionally, a shop in Galolhu was searched, leading to the seizure of a significant quantity of vapes allegedly linked to illegal sales. The operation was carried out by the police in coordination with the Health Ministry and the Economic Ministry.
Under the amendments to the Tobacco Control Act enacted last year, the importation, use, and distribution of vapes are prohibited. The law imposes fines for violations, including:
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MVR 50,000 for importing vaping devices and related products, with an additional fine of up to MVR 10,000 per item
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MVR 20,000 for selling such products, with an additional fine of up to MVR 10,000 per item sold
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MVR 10,000 for distributing vaping devices or related products free of charge
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An additional MVR 50,000 fine for selling or distributing such products to minors
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MVR 5,000 for personal use of such products
Police have stated that the case is under further investigation.
