Taiwanese Worker Deported After Found with Etomidate E-Vaporiser

A Taiwanese man was repatriated after authorities discovered he possessed an e-vaporiser pod containing etomidate. The incident occurred on October 21, 2025, leading to the revocation of his work permit, according to the Ministry of Health (MOH) and the Health Sciences Authority (HSA). This case is part of a broader crackdown on etomidate use among foreign nationals in Singapore.

Authorities Crack Down on E-Vaporiser Abuse

The Taiwanese man is among six foreign individuals linked to etomidate use who have either been repatriated or are awaiting deportation. The MOH and HSA issued a joint statement reminding foreigners in Singapore to adhere to local laws. Failure to comply can result in the revocation of work passes and restrictions on future employment in the country.

Since the implementation of an enhanced anti-vaping framework in September 2025, authorities have intensified their efforts to address e-vaporiser-related offences. In just three months, they caught and fined 2,710 individuals for such violations, with 257 of those found in possession of e-vaporisers containing etomidate.

Rehabilitation and Legal Consequences

Of the 257 etomidate abusers, 162 have been enrolled in rehabilitation programmes at the Institute of Mental Health and various social service agencies. Investigations are ongoing for 70 others. While many offenders have complied with rehabilitation orders, three individuals have faced legal action for failing to attend their initial appointments. They could face potential jail terms of up to two years.

Additionally, four repeat offenders have been identified as defaulters, having missed multiple rehabilitation sessions. This brings the total number of defaulters from September 1 to November 30 to eight. The authorities continue to investigate these cases, emphasizing the importance of compliance with rehabilitation requirements.

The MOH and HSA have reported that in the past three months, 72 individuals voluntarily enrolled in programmes aimed at quitting etomidate vaping, while 310 signed up for the Health Promotion Board’s “I Quit” programme.

Under the new regulations, individuals found possessing, using, or purchasing e-vaporisers face significantly higher penalties. Those who do not complete rehabilitation programmes will be prosecuted. Offenders caught using e-vaporisers for a third time or more will be prosecuted in court and may face fines of up to S$2,000 (approximately US$1,550). Importantly, penalties for etomidate-related offences are notably stricter, reflecting the seriousness of this issue in Singapore’s public health landscape.

As the crackdown continues, officials reiterate the need for adherence to local laws to ensure the safety and well-being of all residents and visitors in Singapore.