Customs investigation uncovers illegal online trade with 150,000 vapes in Hamburg

The packages containing the e-cigarettes are said to have been sent almost as if on an assembly line. But for the suspected operators of an online trade in illegal vapes, i.e. disposable e-cigarettes, it was over on Wednesday: More than 130 customs investigators searched apartments and warehouses in Hamburg and seized around 150,000 untaxed e-cigarettes.

According to the Hamburg Customs Investigation Office, the investigation is directed against several suspects between the ages of 25 and 38. They are said to have sold disposable e-cigarettes to customers throughout Germany via an online shop since at least 2025. The investigators speak of “illegal and unmarketable” e-cigarettes. According to customs officials, the seized products were not taxed.

According to previous findings, the suspects stored their goods in several halls in Hamburg. They are also said to have used straw men and companies to conduct their business. The head of the Hamburg customs investigation office, Nils Gärtner, spoke of a significant blow to illegal trade. “Customs consistently fights tax evasion and at the same time protects the health of the population,” he said.

There are high penalties

The Hamburg public prosecutor's office is investigating suspicions of commercial tax fraud. If convicted, prison sentences range from six months to ten years. The accused are presumed innocent.

Tobacco taxes have been levied on e-cigarettes and the liquids used in them since July 2022. There are also strict requirements for labeling and content. Pre-filled tanks and cartridges may contain a maximum of two milliliters of liquid. The regulations are intended to protect consumers from excessive nicotine intake.