Kazakhstan Seizes 150k Illegal Vapes in Almaty Raid

Kazakhstan Vape Seizure

Authorities in Almaty, Kazakhstan, have dismantled a group engaged in the illegal trafficking of electronic cigarettes (vapes), flavors, and their liquids. The operation, conducted by the Financial Monitoring Agency (AFM), targeted a network that sold the prohibited products through a Telegram channel named “Escobar Optom,” utilizing courier services for delivery.

During operational investigative activities, law enforcement identified and raided warehouses and sales points associated with the illicit business. The search resulted in the seizure of more than 150,000 vape units. The AFM estimates that the potential revenue from the sale of these seized products could have exceeded 1 billion tenge.

Officials noted with concern that the products were being actively distributed among minors, including schoolchildren. “The organizers of the shadow business knowingly supplied electronic cigarettes to teenagers, putting their health at serious risk,” the AFM stated. Further details of the investigation are not being disclosed at this time.

Matthew Ma
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