First etomidate trafficking case in Singapore
A 40-year-old Singaporean man, Derek Khor Boon Chun, has been charged with drug trafficking, marking the first such case in the country involving etomidate-laced KPods. According to court documents, Khor allegedly committed the offence on 6 September at around 4:40pm in a car park at Block 631 Ang Mo Kio Avenue 4, part of the Yio Chu Kang View estate.
Authorities reported that Khor was found in possession of 43 KPods containing etomidate, a substance recently classified as a Class C drug under the Misuse of Drugs Act. He faces one count of drug trafficking and, if convicted, could be sentenced to up to 10 years’ imprisonment and five strokes of the cane. Khor is scheduled to appear in court on 15 September.
Stricter enforcement and tougher penalties
This case comes just a week after the Singapore government introduced stricter measures against etomidate and vaping. From 1 September, individuals caught with vapes or abusing etomidate face heavier fines and mandatory supervision, including drug testing for 12 months under the Misuse of Drugs Act.
Authorities have emphasised that these measures are part of a broader crackdown to prevent the spread and abuse of etomidate, which has increasingly been found in KPods and other vaping devices. Enforcement has also been stepped up across residential areas, public spaces, and transport hubs.
Previous convictions highlight growing concern
Singapore has already seen similar cases. On 13 August, a 41-year-old Yishun resident, Mohammed Akil Abdul Rahim, was convicted for manufacturing and selling 100 etomidate-laced KPods from his home, the first such conviction in the city-state. Rahim’s sentencing is pending.
The recent spate of etomidate-related cases underscores the government’s zero-tolerance stance on drug trafficking and vaping, and reflects a coordinated effort between the Health Sciences Authority, police, and other agencies to safeguard public health and curb illegal activities.
Authorities continue to urge the public to report any suspicious activities involving vapes or illegal substances through official channels, reinforcing Singapore’s firm approach to drug enforcement and public safety.