A 15-year-old boy in Singapore has been ordered to spend two years at the Singapore Boys’ Home after repeatedly being caught with electronic vapourisers, or vapes, in a span of 10 months. Despite previous warnings and enforcement action, the teen was found in possession of vapes on five separate occasions across different parts of the island.
The Youth Court, which handles juvenile cases and is closed to the public and media due to the offender’s age, handed down the order after reviewing multiple charges against the youth. In total, he faced five charges under the Tobacco (Control of Advertisements and Sale) Act, each corresponding to an incident where he was found with a vape. Additionally, the Singapore Police Force brought 15 more charges against him in the same proceedings.
Vape Incidents Across Singapore Neighbourhoods
The youth’s encounters with the law began on 4 February 2024, when he was found with a vape at a void deck in Punggol. He was caught again on 19 March with two devices at a McDonald’s outlet in Nex shopping mall. His third offence occurred on 30 May at Sin Ming Avenue, followed by a fourth incident in the same area less than two weeks later. The final offence took place in October 2024 at Serangoon Central, reported CNA
These repeated breaches demonstrate the growing challenge authorities face in curbing underage vaping, especially as products become more accessible through online channels and illicit networks.
Strict Anti-Vaping Laws in Singapore
Singapore has some of the toughest vaping laws in the world. Under the Tobacco Act, it is illegal to possess, purchase, or use electronic vaporisers. Offenders can be fined up to S$2,000 per offence, even for first-time violations. The government’s hard stance reflects ongoing concerns about the health risks associated with vaping, particularly among youths.
The Health Sciences Authority (HSA) reiterated in its statement that enforcement operations will continue, and members of the public should be aware that vapes—often marketed as less harmful than traditional cigarettes—are strictly banned in Singapore, regardless of where or how they were obtained.
Youth Rehabilitation Over Punishment
While the boy could have faced a series of financial penalties, the court opted for rehabilitation through long-term placement at the Singapore Boys’ Home, a residential institution focused on reforming juvenile offenders through counselling, education, and discipline.
Authorities are increasingly turning to reformative measures rather than just punitive ones, especially for minors involved in substance-related offences. This case serves as a reminder that youth caught flouting the law—no matter the perceived severity—may face serious consequences that go beyond monetary fines.
Parents, educators, and the wider community are urged to stay vigilant and engage in open conversations with teens about the legal and health dangers of vaping.