Cybercrime – DRI Uncovers Massive Illegal Vape Import Network Across India
Cybercrime – The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence has carried out a major nationwide operation against an alleged smuggling network involved in the illegal import of electronic cigarettes and vaping products, leading to the seizure of nearly three lakh devices valued at around Rs 120 crore.
The action was conducted across several locations in Maharashtra, Gujarat, Delhi and West Bengal, where officials intercepted multiple consignments suspected of bypassing customs regulations. Authorities said the crackdown was based on intelligence inputs regarding the movement of banned nicotine-related products through ports, airports and Inland Container Depots in different parts of the country.
Intelligence Inputs Trigger Coordinated Operation
According to the Ministry of Finance, the investigation began after the DRI received detailed information about unusual import consignments entering India through different customs checkpoints. Officials then launched a coordinated surveillance exercise to monitor suspicious cargo movements linked to the suspected network.
The ministry stated that investigators tracked several shipments that had allegedly been deliberately misdeclared to avoid customs scrutiny. During inspections, officers reportedly found a large quantity of electronic cigarettes and vape devices concealed within cargo documents carrying misleading descriptions.
Goods Allegedly Imported Under False Declarations
Officials involved in the operation said the seized products included various brands, flavours and models of vaping devices. Preliminary findings indicate that the consignments originated from China and were routed into India using deceptive import declarations.
Investigators alleged that the products were falsely labelled as items such as furniture and metal chair components in an attempt to escape detection during customs clearance procedures. Authorities believe the network relied on these misleading descriptions to move banned products through different logistics channels.
The DRI is continuing its probe to identify the individuals and businesses linked to the supply chain and distribution network associated with the seized consignments.
Ban on Electronic Cigarettes Remains in Force
The central government has once again highlighted that electronic cigarettes and Electronic Nicotine Delivery Systems remain prohibited in India under the Prohibition of Electronic Cigarettes Act, 2019. The legislation bans the production, manufacture, import, export, transport, sale, storage and advertisement of such products across the country.
Officials said enforcement agencies remain alert to attempts by organised networks to illegally bring vaping products into Indian markets despite the existing restrictions. Authorities have also increased monitoring at customs points due to growing concerns over concealed imports and illegal distribution activities.
Government Emphasises Public Health Concerns
The Finance Ministry stated that the law prohibiting electronic cigarettes was introduced to address health-related risks associated with nicotine addiction and vaping products. Officials said the restrictions are aimed at protecting public health, particularly among younger consumers who may be vulnerable to nicotine dependence.
The ministry added that agencies working under the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs will continue to strengthen enforcement measures against smuggling activities linked to prohibited products. Investigators are also expected to examine financial and logistical links connected to the seized consignments as part of the ongoing inquiry.
Authorities have not yet disclosed whether arrests have been made in connection with the operation. Further investigation is underway to determine the scale of the alleged network and identify additional routes used for illegal imports.