Foreign National Arrested in Malé With Over 950 Nano Sticks

A foreign national has been arrested in Malé following an operation targeting the illegal sale of vape products.

Police reported that officers recovered 959 nano sticks, 34 vape flavours and 11 disposable vape devices from his residence.

According to the Maldives Police Service, the 34-year-old Bangladeshi man, identified as Chion, was residing and working in the Maldives without valid documentation and was involved in the unlawful sale of vape products. He was arrested on Thursday during a joint operation conducted by Galolhu Police Investigation and Response together with the Patrol Department, and was subsequently handed over to Maldives Immigration.

Authorities stated that the case remains under investigation. Police also noted an increase in recent months in cases involving undocumented migrants engaged in illegal activities.

The government banned the import of vapes on 15 November 2024 as part of its anti-tobacco campaign. The possession and use of vape products were prohibited one month later.