In a major Singaporean news update, three men from Singapore were arrested in Malaysia after police uncovered a drug operation involving cocaine-laced vape cartridges. The incident happened in Selangor, near Kuala Lumpur, on June 19, 2025. Authorities say this is Malaysia’s first known case involving cocaine in e-vaporiser liquids.
The Royal Malaysia Police’s Narcotics Criminal Investigation Department (NCID) reported that four men were arrested in total. A Malaysian man, aged 57, and two Singaporeans, aged 46 and 25, were caught in a car close to a hotel. The fourth suspect, a 31-year-old Singaporean, was arrested in the hotel lobby.
Illegal Vape Cartridges Seized
During the raid, police discovered 10 boxes containing a total of 4,958 vape cartridges. These cartridges were suspected to contain 9.42 litres of cocaine. The total value of the seized drugs is estimated to be RM7.29 million (around S$2.2 million). Each cartridge could deliver up to 100 inhalations, making them extremely dangerous if misused.
Police explained that the syndicate had been renting luxury condominium units in Kuala Lumpur to package the vape liquids before sending them to other countries. The operation is believed to have started in March 2025. Three of the suspects reportedly earned between S$100 to S$200 a day, while the fourth suspect received profits from the sales.
Police Statement and Legal Consequences
NCID acting director Mat Zani Mohd Salahuddin Che Ali said, “We believe the syndicate had planned to use Malaysia as a transit hub, with drugs possibly smuggled in by land routes from the south.” He added that the operation was highly organised and could have posed serious risks to the public.
Under Malaysian law, if convicted, the suspects could face life imprisonment or even the death penalty, along with caning. Authorities stressed the importance of cracking down on such drug trafficking networks to protect both local and international communities.
Why This Case Is Significant
This case highlights growing concerns about illegal substances being sold through popular products such as vape cartridges. Police are warning citizens to be careful about suspicious products, especially those claiming to be harmless.
The arrest of the Singaporean men in Malaysia has made headlines in regional news, reminding the public about the risks of drug trafficking. Experts note that vape cartridges laced with dangerous substances like cocaine can be life-threatening, and children and teens should avoid them completely.