Minister’s son fined over MVR 1 million for vape smuggling
Maahil, who serves on the Youth Advisory Committee, has faced criticism on social media following reports of the incident.
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Abdulla Maahil Shaheem, son of Islamic Affairs Minister Dr Mohamed Shaheem Ali Saeed, has been fined more than MVR 1 million after being caught with a large quantity of vape products at Velana International Airport.
Customs officers detained Maahil and another man on Thursday night and seized over 200 vape devices. Sources confirmed to Atoll Times that each of the two men was carrying about 100 vape sticks.
Customs confirmed to the media that two individuals were stopped with vape products but declined to provide further details when contacted on Friday.
Under the amendments to the Tobacco Control Act introduced late last year, the import and use of vaping products are prohibited. Penalties include:
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A fine of up to MVR 50,000 for importing vaping devices and related products
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A fine of up to MVR 10,000 per individual device
Based on the quantity seized, Maahil faces a fine exceeding MVR 1.05 million, with the total fines for both men expected to surpass MVR 2 million.
Maahil, who serves on the Youth Advisory Committee, has faced criticism on social media following reports of the incident. The President’s Office was not available for comment.
