A couple was apprehended on Friday, the 13th, in the Ilhotas neighborhood of Teresina's South Zone, after authorities discovered numerous electronic cigarettes in their residence. The operation was led by the Civil Police as part of a broader investigation into drug trafficking activities in the region. The Police Department of Narcotics Repression (Denarc) reported that the electronic cigarettes in question are illegal as they are not produced within Brazil and may be classified under crimes against public health as well as smuggling laws.

According to Delegate Samuel Silveira, the confiscated electronic cigarettes, popularly known as vapes, are considered prohibited merchandise under Brazilian law. He emphasized that the amount seized indicates a significant breach of regulations concerning public health and criminal law. The products were initially transported to the Denarc headquarters and are set to be further investigated by the Federal Police.

The couple was taken to the Central Flagrances station for processing. This incident highlights ongoing concerns regarding the illicit trade of electronic cigarettes in Brazil, particularly with rising drug trafficking issues, signaling a need for stricter enforcement against such illegal activities.