Police in the Maldives now have the authority to seize vaping devices, following new amendments to the Tobacco Control Act that came into effect on December 15.
The sale, distribution, and use of vaping products have been banned under the revised law. While individuals caught vaping have been fined since the ban, police previously lacked the legal authority to confiscate the devices.
However, a new regulation issued by the Health Ministry, which takes effect today, grants enforcement agencies—including police and customs—the power to seize prohibited electronic cigarettes, vaping devices, and related products found in use, possession, or during a court-ordered search in restricted areas.
Confiscated vaping products will not be returned and must be destroyed by enforcement authorities.
The sale, distribution, and use of vaping products have been banned under the revised law. While individuals caught vaping have been fined since the ban, police previously lacked the legal authority to confiscate the devices.
However, a new regulation issued by the Health Ministry, which takes effect today, grants enforcement agencies—including police and customs—the power to seize prohibited electronic cigarettes, vaping devices, and related products found in use, possession, or during a court-ordered search in restricted areas.
Confiscated vaping products will not be returned and must be destroyed by enforcement authorities.
