More than MVR 200,000 in fines were issued in October alone for vape-related offenses under the Tobacco Control Act, as police statistics reveal an alarming rise in cases involving the use, possession and sale of vapes.

According to statistics issued by the Maldives Police Service (MPS), 35 individuals were penalized across 25 separate cases during the month. Of these, 15 were fined for possession and 19 for using vapes, while one individual faced penalties for selling and trading the devices.

The total fines amounted to MVR 226,000. Of this sum, MVR 104,000 was imposed for using vapes, MVR 97,000 for possession, and MVR 20,000 for the sale and trade of vaping products. An additional MVR 5,000 was collected for other related violations.

Following amendments to the Tobacco Control Act, even distributing a vape for free now carries a MVR 10,000 penalty. Individuals caught using vapes face fines of MVR 5,000, while sellers risk MVR 20,000 in penalties plus an additional MVR 10,000 for each device sold.

Despite the growing number of fines, authorities appear to be struggling to contain the spread of illegal vape products. MP for Dhiggaru constituency Ahmed Nazim recently raised concerns in the People’s Majlis, claiming that the smuggling of cigarettes and vapes has surged since the hike in cigarette duty. He noted that illicit imports are now surpassing legally imported cigarettes and alleged that some vaping products have even passed through Customs clearance.

Social media platforms continue to feature pages openly promoting and selling these prohibited products, underscoring the gap between enforcement efforts and the reality of the growing vape market.