Brazilian Federal Police Launch Special Operation, Shut Down Five E-Cigarette Shops in Teresina

  Brazilian federal police searched vaping shops in Teresina, seized multiple products, and the case remains under investigation.

Breaking news: According to the latest report from Brazilian media outlet globo, on the morning of December 13, the Brazilian Federal Police, with support from the Federal Revenue Service, launched “Operation Vapor Clandestino,” searching and shutting down five vaping shops in Teresina in an effort to crack down on the commercialization of vaping products.

The operation deployed 20 federal police officers and 3 federal tax inspectors, who executed search and seizure warrants at five vaping stores in the capital of Piauí.

During the searches, federal police seized hundreds of devices and accessories.

Under a resolution issued by Brazil’s National Health Surveillance Agency (ANVISA), Brazil has banned the import and sale of e-cigarettes, accessories, pods, and flavorings since 2009. Penalties include warnings and fines. Those responsible may also face smuggling charges, punishable by 2 to 5 years in prison.