The operation, named Operation Tonogra and directed from Granada, has led to the investigation of four companies and the arrest of three individuals. The detainees are alleged perpetrators of crimes against public health, against public treasury, and for belonging to a criminal group.

The investigation began after receiving information about a warehouse operating without the necessary permits and authorizations. The inquiries, which started in November, culminated in early March with the entry and search of the warehouse in Peligros, as well as the homes of the detainees in Alhendín and a commercial establishment in Granada capital.

In parallel, coordinated inspections were carried out in 170 establishments across eight autonomous communities (Andalusia, Aragon, Asturias, Castilla La Mancha, Catalonia, Extremadura, Madrid, and Valencia) that were selling products from the investigated companies.

As a result, 8,000 containers of e-cigarette liquids ready for sale, raw materials for their production, and related equipment were seized, with an estimated value of nearly 890,000 euros. The detainees face charges for producing products without health traceability or licenses, non-compliance with tax obligations, and membership in a criminal group.

This operation is pioneering in the vaping industry and has had the collaboration of the Central Unit for Fiscal and Border Analysis and Investigation (Ucaiff) of the Guardia Civil, as well as the Directorate General of Public Health and Equity in Health of the Ministry of Health, the Health Area of the Government Delegation of Spain in Andalusia, and the Provincial Inspection Services of Labor and Social Security and the Department of Industry of the Territorial Delegation of Granada.