Burst
Written by: Ling Yide
2020-02-11 22:22
Last updated: 2020-02-11 22:22The Department of Health and the police yesterday (10th) launched a joint operation on the illegal sale of liquid products containing nicotine for use in electronic nicotine delivery systems (commonly known as electronic cigarettes).
The Department of Health followed up with complaints from the public and found that a retailer in Wan Chai was selling a product called "RELX" with a label containing nicotine. Yesterday, actions were taken on the retail outlet and its branch in Mong Kok, during which a number of liquid products labeled as containing nicotine for e-cigarettes were found.
During the operation, a 38-year-old man was arrested by the police for illegal sale and possession of Part 1 poison and unregistered pharmaceutical products. In addition, a 21-year-old man and a 19-year-old woman were arrested by the police for illegal possession of Part 1 poison and unregistered pharmaceutical products.
The Department of Health is continuing its investigation.
According to the Pharmacy and Poisons Ordinance (Cap. 138), e-cigarette products containing nicotine are pharmaceutical products and must be registered with the Hong Kong Pharmacy and Poisons Board before they can be sold in Hong Kong. In addition, Part 1 poisons can only be sold in pharmacies under the supervision of a registered pharmacist. Illegal sale or possession of Part 1 poisons and unregistered pharmaceutical products is a criminal offence. The maximum penalty for each offence is a fine of $ 100,000 and imprisonment for two years.
Citizens who have purchased the above products should stop using them immediately. If in doubt or feel unwell after use, you should seek medical advice. They can deliver the products to the Drug Office of the Department of Health, Room 1801, Hu Zhong Building, 213 Queen's Road East, Wan Chai during office hours for destruction.
e-cigarette