Presidential Youth Advisory Board member Mahil resigns after vape smuggling allegations

Abdullah Mahil Shaheem, a member of the Presidential Advisory Board on Youth Affairs, has resigned following allegations that he attempted to smuggle a large quantity of vape products into the Maldives last Thursday night.

Mahil, who is the eldest son of Islamic Minister Mohamed Shaheem Ali Saeed, was appointed to the board on August 12, 2024. The advisory board provides counsel to President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu on various youth-related issues.

According to various sources, Mahil was caught attempting to import 118 vape devices and was fined MVR 1 million. Another individual accompanying him was also fined for trying to bring in 107 vape devices.

Customs confirmed that two individuals were apprehended on Thursday night and released after paying the fines. A decision on whether to pursue criminal prosecution is still pending.

The incident sparked public calls for Mahil’s removal from the advisory board, prompting his resignation.

Minister Shaheem denied claims of some media reports that Mahil had vapes strapped to his body or that he works at the Maldivian Embassy in Malaysia.

Customs reported that fines related to illegal vape imports have exceeded MVR 400 million, with one individual recently fined MVR 72 million.

The Maldives banned the sale, use, and trade of vape products in November 2024, and the import of vape devices was officially prohibited in December 2024. The legal age for buying and selling tobacco products has also been raised to 21.

Penalties for Vape Violations in Maldives:

- Illegal possession of vape: MVR 2,000

- Refusal to surrender vape to authorities: Up to MVR 50,000

- Using a vape: MVR 5,000

- Giving a vape for free: MVR 10,000

- Selling a vape: MVR 20,000

- Selling to minors (under 21): MVR 50,000