The Maldives Police Service has reported 15 vape-related cases in July, with the majority involving possession, as enforcement of the amended Tobacco Control Act continues across the country.

According to police, eight of the cases involved possession of vape devices, six were related to usage, and one case concerned the buying and selling of vape products.

A total of 22 individuals were fined MVR 127,000 for vaping-related offences last month. Fines issued included MVR 58,000 for possession, MVR 62,000 for usage, and MVR 7,000 for trade-related violations.

The offences fall under the revised Tobacco Control Act, which came into force on December 15, 2024. The amendment prohibits the use, sale, and free distribution of vapes in the Maldives. Since then, police have registered 83 vape-related cases, including 50 for possession, 25 for usage, and eight involving sales and distribution.

The law imposes a fine of MVR 50,000 for importing vape products, with an additional MVR 10,000 fine per device. Selling or distributing vape products to minors may also result in a separate MVR 50,000 penalty.