Police spokesperson ACP Boniface Rutikanga said the law classifies vaping products as drugs, meaning users cannot justify their use on the grounds that they produce little or no smoke or odor.
“I would like to urge those who use them to take this seriously and start thinking about putting them aside. They are not permitted; this is provided for by law,” Rutikanga said.
Health Minister Dr. Sabin Nsanzimana also warned about the health risks associated with vaping, describing it as among the substances of concern because of its potential harmful effects.
Nsanzimana made the remarks during a TikTok discussion with social media users focused on preventing the use of illicit or substandard alcoholic beverages and drugs.
Vapes, also known as e-cigarettes, are electronic devices that produce an aerosol for users to inhale. The aerosol can contain substances including nicotine, propylene glycol and glycerin.
Vaping devices come in various forms, including products designed to resemble pens and flash drives, which can make them difficult to identify without prior knowledge.
The availability of different flavors and scents, along with the design of the devices and their promotion or discussion on social media, has contributed to their growing popularity among young people.
While e-cigarettes are sometimes promoted as a way to help people who smoke conventional cigarettes quit, Nsanzimana said vaping can pose serious health risks.
“There are many drugs, including those used in vaping. To everyone listening to me, I say: stay away from vaping. It can kill you even more than ordinary cigarettes,” he said.
Nsanzimana said vaping has been associated with several health risks, including cancers affecting the lungs and digestive system. He added that research shows the nicotine contained in vaping products can lead to dependence.
He urged the public, particularly young people, to avoid vaping, warning that its perceived appeal and variety of flavors should not obscure the potential risks to users’ health.
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