Over 2,000 vapes seized at airport
A total of 2,008 vape devices were confiscated at Velana International Airport (VIA) last Wednesday.
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Maldives Customs has seized a significant quantity of vaping devices that were being smuggled into the country.
A total of 2,008 vape devices were confiscated at Velana International Airport (VIA) last Wednesday, marking one of the largest seizures since the country implemented a ban on vaping.
The government banned the sale and use of vapes in December following amendments to the Tobacco Control Act.
Since then, authorities have intensified efforts to curb illegal vaping, leading to multiple fines and arrests. Recently, a foreign national was detained for selling vape products in the capital city.
Under the new law, penalties apply to those involved in the import, sale, or use of vaping products:
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Importing vaping equipment or products: MVR 50,000 fine.
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Each imported electronic cigarette or vape device: Additional MVR 10,000 fine per unit.
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Selling vaping devices or products: MVR 20,000 fine, plus MVR 10,000 per item sold.
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Distributing vaping products for free: MVR 10,000 fine.
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Selling or distributing to minors: Additional MVR 50,000 fine.
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Using vape products: MVR 5,000 fine.
Since the ban, authorities have been actively monitoring businesses and individuals to enforce the law. Multiple users have been fined, and officials have warned of strict action against those violating the regulations.
Customs has yet to confirm whether any arrests were made in connection with this recent seizure.
