Cook Islands Charges Australian Tourist in Vape Bust

Cook Islands Vape Ban

A 19-year-old Australian tourist has been arrested and charged with making a false declaration after attempting to smuggle 41 vape devices into the Cook Islands, where they are a banned product. This marks the first case of its kind to lead to prosecution since the country’s ban on the sale and importation of imitation tobacco products, including vapes and e-cigarettes, took effect on August 1, 2024.

The young man was intercepted during a baggage search at Rarotonga International Airport on July 29, where the undeclared vapes were discovered. He was not detained at the time and subsequently went missing, prompting a search by police. According to police media advisor Trevor Pitt, the tourist, who was in the country with loved ones and recently celebrated his 19th birthday, was eventually located through his known accommodation and voluntarily surrendered to police on Monday.

He was processed and charged late Monday afternoon and is scheduled to appear in court tomorrow, forcing him to stay behind after his intended departure date. Police had earlier expressed frustration that they were not alerted promptly by Customs at the border, which they said allowed the suspect to initially disappear. While visitors over 21 are permitted to bring one vape device and 30ml of e-liquid for personal use, they cannot dispose of or give it away in the country.

Matthew Ma
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