Singapore’s war on illegal vaping has intensified, with the Health Sciences Authority (HSA) recently catching individuals ranging from teenagers to older adults in a series of coordinated enforcement operations. These cases highlight growing concerns over youth vaping, drug-laced pods, and public safety.
Bishan & Ubi Raids Uncover Massive Illegal Vape Haul
In a major breakthrough, HSA officers acted on a public tip-off and arrested a 21-year-old man on 11 July 2025 for allegedly distributing e-vaporisers and related components across Bishan and Ubi. The scale of the operation shocked authorities — nearly three tonnes of e-vaporisers were seized during the raid.
The man was swiftly charged in court on 14 July 2025. The case has been adjourned to 11 August 2025, and investigations are ongoing. This bust underscores the growing commercialisation of illegal vaping devices in Singapore, often disguised as everyday electronics or lifestyle products.
16-Year-Old Found with Drug-Laced Vape Pods, 54 Pods Seized
In another troubling case, HSA raided the homes of two 16-year-old boys after they were allegedly caught vaping in a private-hire car on 18 May 2025. The alert driver reported the incident to the Traffic Police, who confiscated two e-vaporisers on the spot.
Subsequent raids on one of the teens’ residences uncovered a disturbing stash: 54 e-vaporiser pods and three devices. Lab tests later revealed that some pods contained etomidate, a powerful sedative that can cause dangerous side effects when inhaled. No related items were found at the second teen’s home, but both are assisting in ongoing investigations.
Sim Lim Vaper Caught After Viral Video
In a case that drew significant attention online, HSA officers tracked down a 24-year-old man who was filmed vaping inside a lift at Sim Lim Square. The footage, posted on social media on 30 April 2025, went viral — prompting enforcement action.
On 16 May 2025, officers raided the man’s home and seized two e-vaporisers. He is currently assisting with investigations. This case highlights the growing role of social media in helping authorities clamp down on vape-related offences and enforce Singapore’s strict tobacco alternatives laws.
58-Year-Old Man Fined After Being Filmed Vaping in Public
Not even senior citizens are exempt from Singapore’s anti-vape laws. On 22 May 2025, HSA raided the home of a 58-year-old man after a disturbing video surfaced showing him sitting on the road, visibly unwell and holding an e-vaporiser. The footage, posted online just days earlier, showed the man unable to walk without assistance and shaking uncontrollably.
Although no e-vaporisers were found during the home raid, the man admitted to vaping. HSA subsequently issued him a composition fine. The incident has raised public concern about the long-term health effects of unregulated e-vaporiser use, especially among vulnerable groups.
Vape Crackdown Signals Zero Tolerance
These recent cases serve as a stern reminder of the zero-tolerance stance Singapore continues to take against vaping. The use, sale, possession, or distribution of e-vaporisers remains strictly prohibited under the Tobacco (Control of Advertisements and Sale) Act. Offenders may face fines up to S$10,000, jail time, or both.
Authorities are urging the public to stay vigilant and report any suspected illegal vape-related activities. With the rise in popularity of vape culture, particularly among youth, Singapore’s tough stance is meant to protect public health and curb the influence of potentially harmful substances — including etomidate-laced vape pods, now emerging as a dangerous new trend.