In a landmark case that has sounded fresh alarms over the growing vaping crisis in Singapore, a 41-year-old man has been charged for manufacturing DIY Kpods laced with harmful substances in his HDB flat in Yishun. This is the first known case in the country involving homemade drug-infused e-vaporisers, marking a worrying new trend in illegal vaping practices.
The accused, Mohammed Akil Abdul Rahim, appeared in court via video-link on 17 July, where he was handed five charges under the Tobacco (Control of Advertisements and Sale) Act. When questioned, he expressed his intent to plead guilty and declined legal representation, stating: “I don’t want to waste the court’s time.” ” reported Straits Times
Authorities had raided his unit at Block 269B Yishun Street 22 on 11 December 2024, where they uncovered a staggering cache of vaping paraphernalia. Items seized included 569 empty pod casings, 534 components, 1,485 pod covers, and 100 loose e-vaporiser pods. Investigators from the Health Sciences Authority (HSA) believe Akil was using these materials to manufacture illicit Kpods from home, reported HSA.
Etomidate Found in Seized Vapes
Further investigations revealed the presence of etomidate, a dangerous controlled substance, in the vape pods Akil had allegedly sold. Charge sheets indicated he sold 100 pods after midnight on 11 December. Lab analysis confirmed that each pod contained 150ml of liquid laced with etomidate. Later that morning, authorities also found 26.4 grams of white powder containing the same substance in his possession.
Etomidate is typically used in hospital settings to induce sedation during procedures and is strictly regulated. Medical experts warn that inhaling etomidate, rather than injecting it under clinical supervision, can lead to serious health risks. These include seizures, breathing difficulties, muscle spasms, and even psychotic episodes.
Authorities Step Up Anti-Vaping Measures
In response to the rise in such cases, the authorities have hinted at tighter laws surrounding the sale and manufacture of e-vaporisers and related substances. The Ministries highlighted the growing presence of controlled drugs like etomidate in vaping devices, a trend that endangers public health, especially among youth and vulnerable groups.
This unprecedented case highlights not only the ingenuity of illegal vape producers in evading the law but also the urgent need for stronger enforcement and public education. With Kpods already linked to severe health incidents and family tragedies, Singapore’s battle against vaping is now entering a critical phase.
Image Source: HSA