Police fine 39 for vape-related offences in April
The use, import, sale, and distribution of vapes and related devices has been banned in the Maldives since 15 December.
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The Maldives Police have announced that 39 individuals were fined a total of MVR 192,500 during the month of April for offences related to the use and possession of vaping products.
The use, import, sale, and distribution of vapes and related devices has been banned in the Maldives since 15 December, following an amendment to the Tobacco Control Act. The law imposes financial penalties on individuals who violate the ban.
According to police, the fines were issued between 1 and 30 April for various violations of the law.
Maldives Customs has also reported the seizure of multiple shipments of vaping products since the ban came into effect.
Under the amended legislation:
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Importing vaping devices or associated products can lead to a fine of MVR 50,000.
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An additional fine of up to MVR 10,000 may be imposed for each imported device.
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Selling such products can result in a fine of MVR 20,000, with a further MVR 10,000 for each item sold.
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Distributing such products free of charge carries a fine of MVR 10,000.
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Providing these products to minors, whether through sale or free distribution, results in an added fine of MVR 50,000.
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Individuals found using vaping products may be fined MVR 5,000.
Authorities continue to enforce the law across the country and have reiterated that the prohibition applies to all forms of vaping, regardless of the method of acquisition or use.
