Man arrested for suspected illegal sale of nicotine-containing liquids for electronic cigarettes (with photo)
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Acting upon a public complaint, the DH found that the above products were offered for sale on a social networking website. Samples of the products were then purchased for laboratory analysis. Test results from the Government Laboratory revealed that all samples contained Part 1 poison nicotine. During the operation, the seller was arrested by the Police for suspected illegal sale of Part 1 poison and unregistered pharmaceutical products.
The DH's investigation is continuing.
According to the Pharmacy and Poisons Ordinance (Cap 138), nicotine-containing electronic cigarette products are classified as pharmaceutical products requiring registration with the Pharmacy and Poisons Board of Hong Kong before they can be sold in Hong Kong. In addition, Part 1 poisons can only be sold at pharmacies under the supervision of a registered pharmacist. Illegal sale and possession of Part 1 poisons and unregistered pharmaceutical products are criminal offences. The maximum penalty for each offence is a fine of $100,000 and two years' imprisonment.
Members of the public who have purchased the above products should stop using them immediately and consult healthcare professionals for advice if they are in doubt or feeling unwell after use. They may submit the products to the DH's Drug Office in Room 1856, Wu Chung House, 213 Queen's Road East, Wan Chai, during office hours for disposal.
Smokers are advised to quit smoking for their own and others' health. They are encouraged to make use of smoking cessation services through the DH's Integrated Smoking Cessation Hotline (1833 183). Information on smoking cessation can also be obtained from the DH's Tobacco Control Office website (www.tco.gov.hk).
Ends/Tuesday, June 20, 2017
Issued at HKT 15:44
Issued at HKT 15:44
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