Four Arrested in Singapore’s Vaping Crackdown Over Four Days

A recent four-day enforcement operation in Singapore’s Tampines and Central Business District has resulted in the arrest of four individuals for vaping-related offences. Conducted by the Health Sciences Authority (HSA) in collaboration with the National Environment Agency (NEA), this initiative aimed to address hotspots for vaping in the city.

During the operation, which took place from September 17 to September 20, authorities targeted designated smoking areas around shopping malls. Officers in plainclothes moved through the evening crowds, blending in with smokers to effectively monitor and apprehend offenders. In total, the operation led to the seizure of 27 e-vaporisers and related components.

On the first day of the operation, two vape users were caught within a three-hour window. The first individual was apprehended just ten minutes after the operation commenced at 17:00. This person, a delivery rider, received an immediate fine. Towards the conclusion of the operation, another man was also fined outside a mall after being searched by NEA officers. The circumstances of their offences, including whether they were first-time offenders, remain unclear.

In addition to the vaping-related arrests, the operation also identified nine individuals engaging in underage smoking. These cases were referred to the Health Promotion Board for further action. A 20-year-old was found with duty-unpaid cigarettes and was subsequently referred to Singapore Customs, which responded approximately one hour later.

The crackdown on vaping in Singapore has intensified in recent weeks. Following announcements made by the Ministry of Health and the HSA on September 9, more than 5,000 frontline enforcement officers have been authorized to enforce vaping regulations—almost double the previous number.

New penalties for vaping violations took effect on September 1. First-time offenders under the age of 18 now face fines of S$500, while those aged 18 and older will incur fines of S$700. Repeat offenders are required to complete a three-month rehabilitation programme, and those with three or more violations may be prosecuted under the Tobacco (Control of Advertisements and Sale) Act (TCASA), potentially facing fines up to S$2,000.

The enforcement measures are notably stricter for individuals found using Kpods, vapes laced with the anaesthetic agent etomidate. As of September 1, etomidate has been classified as a Class C drug under the Misuse of Drugs Act. Offenders using Kpods must not only pay higher fines but also attend rehabilitation programmes. Failure to complete these programmes may result in prosecution.

As Singapore continues to tighten regulations around vaping, these operations underscore the government’s commitment to controlling its use in public spaces while aiming to protect public health.