Vape Use And Possession Led to Thirty Fines Last Month, Says Police
The Maldives Police Service has reported that 30 individuals were fined in August for offences related to the use and possession of vapes, with penalties totalling MVR 150,000.
Vape-Related Statistics | 1 – 31 August 2025
During August, a total of 11 vape-related incidents were recorded. Over the same period, 30 individuals were fined for violations related to the use and possession of vapes and electronic cigarettes. pic.twitter.com/RCioFeUszU— Maldives Police (@PoliceMv) September 1, 2025advertisement
advertisement
advertisement
According to police records, 14 people were penalised for using vapes and 16 for possessing them. Fines for users amounted to MVR 85,000, while fines for possession totalled MVR 65,000.
The import, sale, and use of vapes have been prohibited in the Maldives since 15 December 2024 under the Tobacco Control Act. Since the ban took effect, authorities have been actively enforcing the regulation and issuing fines to violators.
In August, police investigated 11 vape-related cases, including four cases of possession, four cases of use, and three other offences.
Until recently, officers did not have the authority to confiscate vaping devices. However, this changed in February 2025 when the Health Ministry issued a regulation under the Tobacco Control Act, empowering police to seize vapes in addition to issuing fines.
