Four arrested as police crack down on social media vape and drug sales

Maldives Police Service on Sunday successfully dismantled social media channels actively involved in the illicit sale of prohibited items, including drugs and vape products. The operation led to the arrest of four individuals.

Police officials confirmed that three locations were searched under court order, resulting in the recovery of a substantial quantity of illegal items. The agency has subsequently taken control of the social media accounts previously utilized for these sales. While four arrests have been made in connection with the incident, the identities of those apprehended have not yet been disclosed.

When contacted for comment, a police spokesperson confirmed that the seized items included both drugs and vape products. Further details are expected to be released upon the completion of the ongoing operation.

The Maldivian government ratified the First Amendment to the Tobacco Control Act on November 13, 2024, with most provisions, including bans on advertising, youth sales, and tobacco cultivation, taking effect on November 15 that year. However, the specific ban on the import, sale, free distribution, and use of electronic cigarettes, vaping devices, and related products was implemented on December 15, 2024.

The amendment also prohibits the importation and use of vapes as part of a broader anti-tobacco initiative. Violations of this ban carry significant penalties. The importation of such items can result in a fine of MVR 50,000. Additionally, each individual imported electronic cigarette or vaping device is subject to a fine of up to MVR 10,000.

According to data released by the police in August, a total of MVR 974,500 was collected from 206 vape-related cases between December 15, 2024, and July of this year.