Russian Police Seize Over 150,000 Counterfeit E-Cigarettes Worth More Than USD 1.65 Million

Dec.09

Russian police in Tambov have detained a man for storing and selling unmarked e-cigarettes. Over 150,000 counterfeit e-cigarettes, cartridges, and e-liquids were seized, valued at more than 126.5 million rubles (approximately USD 1.65 million). Tests revealed that the nicotine content of the seized products exceeded the levels stated on their packaging. A criminal case has been opened under Article 171.1, Part 6 of the Russian Criminal Code.

Key Points

Location: Tambov region, Russia
Seized items: Over 150,000 unmarked e-cigarettes, e-liquids, forged documents
Estimated value: RUB 126.5 million (approx. USD 1.65 million)
Legal basis: Article 171.1, Part 6 of the Russian Criminal Code

2Firsts, December 9, 2025 – According to TASS, Russian police detained a man in Tambov for storing and selling unmarked e-cigarettes. Officers seized more than 150,000 counterfeit e-cigarettes, cartridges, and e-liquids, with a total estimated value exceeding 126.5 million rubles (approximately USD 1.39 million).

According to Irina Volk, official representative of the Ministry of Internal Affairs, the suspect organized deliveries of large batches of unmarked e-cigarettes from Moscow to the Tambov region. The goods were disguised as small household appliances, and the suspect produced forged accompanying documents to legitimize the shipments.

Searches conducted at the suspect’s residence, in his vehicles, and at warehouse facilities led to the discovery of unmarked e-cigarettes, e-liquids, accounting documents, and other evidence.

Laboratory analysis confirmed that the nicotine content in the seized e-cigarettes significantly exceeded the levels declared on the packaging.

A criminal case has been initiated under Article 171.1, Part 6 of the Russian Criminal Code.

Image source: TASS News Agency

References:

[1] В Тамбове изъяли более 150 тыс. поддельных электронных сигарет

Also Read:

[1] Russia's Perm Legislators Approve Full Ban on Vape Products in Regional Retail Market

[2] Russian lawmakers propose total ban on e-cigarette sales, in response to Putin's call for protection of youth health

[3] Saratov Governor Supports Russian Nationwide Ban on E-Cigarette Sales

[4] 69% of Russians Support Full Ban on E-Cigarette Sales, SuperJob Survey Shows

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