Customs Seize Unsafe, Untaxed E-vapes and Illegal Tobacco in Aachen Raid
Customs officers in Aachen have seized a large quantity of untaxed and unsafe e-vapes from a kiosk in Euskirchen. The raid also resulted in the discovery of illegal tobacco and a switchblade knife.
The Aachener customs office found 836 e-vapes, both on display and hidden above a ceiling, during a raid on a kiosk in Euskirchen. These devices were untaxed and some were not roadworthy. Additionally, over 1 kilogram of water pipe tobacco without a tax stamp was seized.
Since July 1, 2022, nicotine-containing substances used in e-cigarettes have been subject to IRS tax. Sabine Krämer from the main customs office in Aachen had previously announced this change. During the operation, a switchblade knife was found on a table and confiscated. It was later handed over to the local police.
The seized e-vapes included disposable ones, which are limited to a maximum content of two milliliters in Germany. A tax evasion procedure has been initiated against the 19-year-old seller of the kiosk.
The seized e-vapes and tobacco highlight the importance of tax compliance and safety standards in the e-cigarette industry. As of January 1, 2025, the tobacco tax on nicotine-containing substances will increase to 0.26 cents per milliliter, further emphasizing the need for businesses to stay informed about changing IRS regulations.
