A foreign national has been arrested in Male' with 959 nano sticks in an operation targeting illegal vape sales.
Police said the individual, a 34‑year‑old Bangladeshi man identified as Chion, was working in the Maldives illegally and was involved in the illegal sale of vape products. He was arrested on Thursday in a joint operation conducted by Galolhu Police Investigation and Response and the Patrol Department, and later handed over to Maldives Immigration.
Officers recovered 959 nano sticks, 34 vape flavours and 11 disposable vape devices from his residence, according to police.
Authorities said the case is under investigation. Police noted that incidents involving undocumented migrants engaged in illegal activities have increased in recent months.
The government banned the import of vapes on November 15, 2024, as part of its anti‑tobacco campaign. The possession and use of vapes were prohibited a month later.