232 people in Singapore were caught breaking vaping laws just days after tougher penalties were rolled out on 1 September. According to the Ministry of Health (MOH) and the Health Sciences Authority (HSA), all offenders were issued Notices of Composition (NOC) on the spot.
Authorities revealed that 32 individuals were suspected of abusing vapes containing etomidate, a substance now classified as a Class C controlled drug. So far, 14 cases have been confirmed, while 11 more remain under investigation. Seven were cleared after their devices tested negative.
Those confirmed to be abusing etomidate must undergo rehabilitation programmes instead of prosecution. Three offenders have already been ordered to attend up to six months of counselling, addiction support, and educational sessions.
First trafficker charged under new law
In a separate case, 40-year-old Khor Boon Chun, Derek, was charged with trafficking e-vapouriser pods containing etomidate. He was arrested on 6 September after police spotted him acting suspiciously in Ang Mo Kio. A search of his vehicle uncovered about 50 devices, which later tested positive for the drug.
This marks the first prosecution since etomidate was listed as a controlled substance under the Misuse of Drugs Act. If convicted, traffickers face up to 20 years’ jail and between five to 15 strokes of the cane.
Authorities stressed that enforcement has been stepped up, with more than 5,000 officers from multiple agencies, including the Central Narcotics Bureau, Land Transport Authority, and Singapore Prison Service, empowered to take action against offenders.
New penalties and rehabilitation push
Under the revised framework, anyone caught vaping may face fines of up to S$2,000, mandatory rehabilitation for repeat offenders, or even detention at the Drug Rehabilitation Centre. Importers and sellers face far harsher punishments, reflecting Singapore’s zero-tolerance stance towards vaping and drug abuse.
At the same time, MOH and HSA highlighted that individuals who voluntarily seek help will not be penalised or carry offence records. This approach aims to deter illegal vaping while offering support to those struggling with addiction.
Members of the public with information on illegal vaping activities are encouraged to submit reports via go.gov.sg/reportvape or call HSA’s Tobacco Regulation Branch hotline.