Key Poins
- Pavlodar regional authorities completed an investigation into illegal vape distribution;
- Products were sold via three Telegram online stores using courier delivery;
- More than 53,000 illegal vape-related items were seized, valued at over 400 million tenge (approximately US$880,000);
- School and university students were identified as the main consumer group;
- Courts ordered the seizure of three vehicles and detained four suspects.
2Firsts, December 25, 2025 – According to Elordainfo.kz, the Pavlodar Regional Department of Kazakhstan’s Financial Monitoring Agency has completed an investigation into an organised criminal group engaged in the illegal sale of vaping products.
The group distributed non-combustible tobacco products, vaping devices, flavourings and e-liquids through three Telegram-based online shops, using courier services for delivery.
As a result of enforcement actions, authorities seized more than 53,000 items removed from illegal circulation, with a total estimated value exceeding 400 million tenge (approximately US$880,000).
Investigators said the suspects used financial “droppers” to launder proceeds from illegal sales, opening bank accounts in third-party names. The primary consumers of the vaping products were identified as school pupils and university students.
With court approval, authorities seized three vehicles purchased using criminal proceeds: a Toyota Land Cruiser, a Toyota Highlander and a Chevrolet Camaro.
Four members of the group have been placed in pre-trial detention. In accordance with Article 201 of Kazakhstan’s Criminal Procedure Code, no further details are being disclosed.
Image source: Screenshot from a video by the Kazakhstan Financial Monitoring Agency.
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