Twenty nine individuals fined for using vapes so far

Since the ban on vape imports and usage took effect in the Maldives on December 15 last year, 29 people have been fined, police said today.

A police media official stated that six individuals were fined during the first week of enforcement of the Tobacco Control Act, with each receiving a penalty of MVR 5,000, totaling MVR 30,000.

By the end of last year, an additional 11 individuals were fined MVR 60,500 in 14 cases. From January 1 till end of January, 12 more individuals have been fined in another 14 cases, bringing the total amount of fines to MVR 160,500.

According to the law, using vapes carries a fine of MVR 5,000, while distributing vapes for free results in a fine of MVR 10,000 and the sale of vapes incurs a fine of MVR 20,000.

Additionally, selling vapes to individuals under 21 results in a fine of MVR 50,000.

The police have also stated that violators will be notified via a message sent to their mobiles, which will include a payment link to Vaaru Pay for settling fines.