Malaysian police confiscated vape products worth RM8.876 million in a nationwide raid, arresting four individuals and inspecting 154 locations
KUALA LUMPUR: Police have seized e-cigarettes and vape devices worth RM8.876 million in a major nationwide operation.
The integrated Ops E-Cig Mega was carried out simultaneously across the country on Feb 10.
Acting director of the Department of Internal Security and Public Order (JKDNKA) Datuk Fisol Salleh said the operation targeted 154 locations.
It involved 2,140 officers and personnel from police and other enforcement agencies.
Inspections were conducted at 141 e-cigarette premises, resulting in 199 cases. More than 959 litres of vape liquid and 83,289 devices were confiscated.
“Other items seized included device accessories, batteries, sales equipment, and contraband cigarettes valued at RM67,596,” he told a press conference at Bukit Aman.
Fisol added that 181 individuals were screened, leading to four arrests. Those detained comprised three men and one woman.
A man was detained under Section 186 of the Penal Code for obstructing a public servant in Tangkak, Johor.
A woman, wanted in connection with an offence under Section 182 of the Penal Code, was held in Ipoh.
An Indonesian man was detained for overstaying under the Immigration Act. A Bangladeshi man was arrested under the same Act for lacking valid documents.
Fisol said the operation aimed to prevent revenue leakage to the black market. It also targeted the distribution of unregistered e-cigarettes, particularly among youths and students.
The operation was led by the General Operations Force (GOF). It also involved the Federal Reserve Unit, marine police, and the Wildlife Crime Bureau.
Personnel from the Ministry of Health and the Inland Revenue Board also took part.
Officers from the Ministry of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living and local authorities joined the raid.
