Police Seize Vape Cartridges in Hulhumalé Phase 2 Apartment Raid

The Maldives Police Service (MPS) have seized vape cartridges during an operation conducted in response to allegations of importing, trading, and money laundering associated with vapes in the Maldives.

MPS stated the operation, conducted yesterday, was launched following information received by police intelligence.

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During the operation, two Maldivian men were stopped and questioned on the street, leading to a search of their motorcycle and an apartment in Amaan Udhares linked to them. 

The search yielded 156 vape cartridges, a nanostick, and over MVR 6,000 in cash believed to be proceeds from illegal activity.

Under the amendment to the Tobacco Control Act, the import of vapes and related devices into the Maldives has been banned since November 15, 2024.

According to the law, possessing a vape device illegally carries a fine of MVR 2,000. If an individual refuses to hand over such items to the police, authorities are empowered to impose a fine of MVR 50,000.

Vaping incurs a fine of MVR 5,000. Distributing a vape for free carries a MVR 10,000 fine, while selling vapes results in a MVR 20,000 fine. Selling vapes to anyone under the age of 21 is punishable by a fine of MVR 50,000.

MPS are currently investigating the case.