Kazakhstan Initiate Crackdown on Illegal Vape Trade
Local police officers in Aktau, Kazakhstan have begun carrying out raids against illegal vape trade in the city. As part of their efforts to enforce the recently implemented ban on electronic cigarettes, the authorities inspected various trading locations and engaged in educational outreach with the general population.
Kazakhstan officially prohibited the circulation, production, import, sale, and distribution of electronic consumer systems (vapes), flavors, and liquids as of June 20, 2024. Violators now face criminal liability with punishments ranging from substantial fines to imprisonment.
Punishments for Vape-Related Offenses
According to the Mangistau Region Police Department, selling or distributing vapes falls under Part 1 of Article 301 and carries penalties such as:
- Fines up to 200 MCI (738,400 tenge in 2024)
- Community service for up to 200 hours
- Arrest for up to 50 days
Importing or producing vapes, covered by Part 2 of the article, results in harsher punishments:
- Fines up to 2,000 MCI (7.3 million tenge in 2024)
- Community service for up to 600 hours
- Restriction or imprisonment for up to 2 years
Repeat offenses committed by criminal groups or those generating significant illegal income face even more severe consequences, with fines reaching 5,000 MCI (18.4 million tenge in 2024), community service of up to 1,200 hours, or restriction/imprisonment of liberty for up to 5 years.
Merely smoking vapes in unauthorized places will incur the same penalties as smoking traditional cigarettes – a fine of 3 MCI (11,076 tenge in 2024).
The police department urges citizens to comply with the new regulations and encourages the public to report any suspicious vape-related activities to the authorities. By working together, Aktau can effectively combat the illegal vape trade and promote a healthier smoke-free environment for all.
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