Police investigating domestic violence seize 242 vaping flavor bottles

Maldives Police Service has seized 242 vaping flavor bottles during a search of an apartment as part of an investigation into a domestic violence case filed on Thursday.

The Police on Friday said a Hiyaa flat apartment in Hulhumale’ Phase II was searched as part of a domestic violence investigation at approximately 21:14pm last night.

According to the Police, 242 vaping flavor bottles were seized during the search of the apartment.

The Police did not disclose any further details regarding the case including whether any arrest was made.  

However, the Police said the case is under further investigation.

Maldives implemented a blanket ban on the import, sale, free distribution, and use of vaping devices and e-cigarettes in mid-December last year as part of a campaign against smoking launched by President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu’s administration.

This has created a black market for these products.

According to statistics disclosed by the Police, fines totaling near MVR 1 million have been imposed between December 2024 and July 2025 for various infractions related to the use and possession of vape products.

MVR 974,500 was collected from 206 vape-related cases between December 15 and July 31.

Between December 15–31, one person was fined for vape possession and 16 for use, totaling MVR 85,500 in fines. Authorities noted minors were involved in some cases, and their details were recorded and reported.

In January, 14 cases resulted in MVR 75,000 in fines. February saw MVR 65,000 from 13 cases. In March, MVR 129,500 was collected from 31 individuals. April recorded the highest at MVR 192,500 from 38 cases.

After a dip in May, fines rose in June before declining again. May saw MVR 130,000 from 35 individuals. In June, MVR 170,000 came from 34 cases. Last month, MVR 127,000 was collected from 23 individuals, including one for selling.

In May, 20 individuals were apprehended for vape possession, 13 for use, and two for other related offenses, yielding a total of MVR 130,000 in fines. In June, MVR 170,000 was collected from 18 individuals for vape use and 16 for vape possession. Last month, MVR 127,000 was collected from 13 individuals for use, nine for possession, and one for selling vapes.