Two locations in Male' that were illegally selling vapes have been searched and one person has been arrested.

Police said today that based on intelligence information about illegal vape sales in Male', they conducted two special operations.

In the operation, a search of the residence and cafe of a person suspected of selling vapes resulted in the discovery of 84 vape cartridges and money believed to be from vape sales.

A 27-year-old Bangladeshi national, MD Abu Sufian, was arrested in connection with the case.

Additionally, a shop in Galolhu suspected of selling vapes was searched, and a large number of vapes were taken into police custody. However, police have not disclosed how many vapes were seized from the shop.

The Health Ministry and Economic Ministry also participated in both operations along with the police.

Police said they are investigating both cases.

The import and use of vapes in the Maldives has been banned since December 15, 2024. Under the Tobacco Control Act, people who use or sell vapes are fined from that date. From February 12 this year, police have been given the authority to confiscate vapes.

According to regulations, possessing vape devices illegally can result in a fine of MVR 2,000. Refusing to hand over these items to the police can result in a fine of up to MVR 50,000.

By law, using a vape will result in a MVR 5,000 fine. Giving away a vape for free will result in a MVR 10,000 fine, and selling a vape will result in a MVR 20,000 fine. Selling a vape to someone under 21 years old will result in a MVR 50,000 fine.