Govt silent on youth assembly member’s status after vape smuggling fine
Based on the quantity seized, Maahil’s fine amounts to more than MVR 1.05 million, while the total fines for both men exceed MVR 2 million.
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The government has not commented on the removal of Presidential Advisor Youth Assembly member Abdulla Maahil Shaheem after he was fined for attempting to smuggle a large quantity of vape products into the Maldives.
Maahil and another individual were detained at Velana International Airport on Thursday night by customs officers, who seized the products. Sources confirmed that a large number of vape devices were confiscated.
Amendments to the Tobacco Control Act introduced last year prohibit the use and import of vaping products. The law imposes heavy fines, including:
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Up to MVR 50,000 for importing vaping devices and related products.
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Up to MVR 10,000 for each individual electronic cigarette or vaping device.
Based on the quantity seized, Maahil’s fine amounts to more than MVR 1.05 million, while the total fines for both men exceed MVR 2 million.
Social media users have expressed concern that Maahil, son of Islamic Affairs Minister Dr Mohamed Shaheem Ali Saeed, remains a member of the Youth Advisory Committee despite the fine.
The President’s Office has not responded to questions on whether Maahil has been removed or whether a decision has been made regarding his membership.
Minister Shaheem has previously denied rumours circulating online that his son was an employee of the Maldivian Embassy in Malaysia. He did not respond to the allegations concerning the importation of vape products.
