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

Dec.09.2025
Russian Police Seize Over 150,000 Counterfeit E-Cigarettes Worth More Than USD 1.65 Million
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

 

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