Trio Charged with Trafficking Etomidate Pods in Singapore

Three individuals, including a 17-year-old girl, face charges in Singapore for trafficking etomidate pods, commonly known as Kpods. The Health Sciences Authority (HSA) confirmed the charges on October 4, 2023. Due to her age, the teenager cannot be identified under the Children and Young Persons Act. The other two accused are identified as Vernette Heng Cui Teng, 23, and Amir Shah Anwar Shah, 27.

The investigation began on October 2 when HSA tracked a male etomidate user. Officials seized a total of 16 electronic vaporisers and related components from the 17-year-old’s residence. In addition, they recovered 64 vapes and components from Heng’s home. The inquiry subsequently led to Amir’s arrest, who is alleged to have supplied Kpods to the minor and another unnamed female user via the messaging platform Telegram.

Details of the Charges

Each of the trio faces a single charge of trafficking etomidate pods. The charges include specific allegations against the individuals: the 17-year-old is accused of possessing four Kpods intended for trafficking at a flat in Jurong West on October 2, while Heng faces a charge for possessing one Kpod for trafficking at her flat in Ang Mo Kio on September 28. Amir is charged with trafficking two etomidate pods to a female user for S$150 at 223 Rangoon Road on October 2.

In a statement, the HSA emphasized its serious stance on such offenses, highlighting that individuals involved in the import, sale, and distribution of etomidate e-vaporisers face severe penalties. Offenders can face imprisonment ranging from three to 20 years, along with caning for imports. Sellers and distributors risk two to 10 years’ imprisonment and two to five strokes of the cane.

Legal Proceedings and Bail Conditions

The cases against the trio have been adjourned for future hearings. The 17-year-old has specific bail conditions, which include a requirement to continue attending school. The two unnamed etomidate users involved in this case received immediate fines from the authorities.

This incident underscores the ongoing concerns regarding substance abuse and trafficking in Singapore. The HSA’s rigorous enforcement measures aim to deter such activities and protect public health.