Police seize large quantity of vapes from two residences

Following last night's raid of four locations, from which 148 vapes and vape cartridges were seized, Police once again conducted searches at two additional residences, from which a large quantity of vapes were seized. 

A Police Media Official said last night that they had conducted searches of two residences under a court order.

190 flavoured vape cartridges, 9 nano sticks and a disposable pod were seized from one location.

Search of the second location led to the discovery of 331 flavoured cartridges, 6 refill cartridges and 7 pods. 

A total of 544 items were seized during the searches, according to Police. 

Earlier last night, Police seized 148 items from a similar search on two residences and two vehicles. This operation led to one person being fined. Police also seized a Facebook page conducting illegal sale of vapes. 

Vape imports were banned under last year’s amendment to the Tobacco Control Act, which also introduced strict penalties for possession and sale.

The law sets a fine of MVR 2,000 for illegal possession of a vaping device, rising to MVR 50,000 if a person refuses to surrender the device to police.

Using a vape carries a fine of MVR 5,000, while giving one away incurs a MVR 10,000 penalty. Selling a vape carries a fine of MVR 20,000, rising to MVR 50,000 if it is sold to someone under the age of 21.