The police have warned that they will take legal action and impose fines on those who use vapes, following the amendment to the Tobacco Control Act. In a statement released tonight, the police said they are working to enforce the law in connection with the amendment to the Tobacco Control Act. According to the Tobacco Control Act, the police will take legal action and impose fines on those who sell, give away, distribute, or exchange electronic cigarettes or vaping devices.
In addition, the statement said that legal action will be taken against those who use such devices. A short message will be sent to the phones of those who are fined, and the message will include a Varu Pay payment link for paying the fine, according to the police statement. The statement urged everyone to fully comply with the amendment to the Tobacco Control Act and to provide full cooperation to the police in enforcing the law. “Our common goal should be to build a healthy society free from tobacco use,” the police statement said.
The import of vapes and vaping materials into the Maldives has been banned since the 15th of last month. And from 12 midnight, vape business and consumption have been banned in the Maldives. President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu ratified the amendment to the Tobacco Control Act on the 13th of last month, banning the use and trade of vapes in the Maldives and setting the minimum age for tobacco trade at 21 years.
If this law is violated, a hefty fine will be imposed:
1. Importing vapes and vaping materials: 50,000 rufiyaa fine for the importer
2. Additional 10,000 rufiyaa fine for each vape imported
3. 20,000 rufiyaa fine for each person selling vapes in the Maldives, and 10,000 rufiyaa fine for each vape sold
4. 10,000 rufiyaa fine for giving away a vape for free
5. 5,000 rufiyaa fine for using a vape
This strict enforcement highlights the government’s commitment to curbing vape use and promoting public health in the Maldives.
