The Maldives Police Service (MPS) has issued a stern warning regarding the enforcement of the recently amended Tobacco Control Act, which now bans the sale and use of vaping devices and products.
In a statement, the MPS cautioned that individuals found in violation of the vaping ban will face fines as stipulated by the law. Notifications of these fines will be sent through text messages, police said, ensuring that violators are promptly informed of their penalties.
To ensure compliance, the police will take legal action against individuals who sell or give away electronic cigarettes or vaping devices and products, according to the statement. The police also warned that those caught vaping or using vaping devices will be fined accordingly. The text messages sent to violators will include details on how to pay the fines, along with a link to 'Vaaru Pay' for convenient payment, it said.
The police also urged the community to comply with the new amendment and assist in promoting a smoke-free environment, calling on the public to support the enforcement efforts and report any instances of vaping in public spaces.
Speaking on PSM News' 'Dhafaraa' programme, Sub-inspector of Police Nizam Mohamed noted that the public can report individuals found vaping on the street or in public spaces. When the police receive such a report, officers will attend the scene and address the issue, he said, highlighting the enforcement protocol in place.
Inspector of Police Aminath Nishana revealed that guidelines have been drafted to ensure uniform enforcement across all islands. Reports of vaping violations can be made through hotlines 119 and 911 and other contact numbers used by the police, she added. "The frontline officers will follow our guidelines. In islands lacking a [police] station or post, they will follow the guidelines set forth by the Health Ministry," she stated.
The nationwide ban on the use, sale, and free giveaway of electronic cigarettes, vaping devices, and products came into effect on 15 December. Under the amended Tobacco Control Act, the import of vaping devices and related products incurs a fine of approximately USD 3,243, with an additional fine of approximately USD 648 for each item.
Sellers of vaping devices and products face a fine of around USD 1,297, plus USD 648 per item sold. Those giving away vaping products for free will be fined approximately USD 648. A stricter penalty of about USD 3,243 is imposed on individuals who sell or give away vaping devices or products to minors.