A viral video of a teenager collapsing at an MRT station has sparked online debate, with many speculating if drug-laced vape products were involved. The Health Sciences Authority (HSA) has since confirmed that the teen was found in possession of an e-vaporiser and pod, and is currently assisting with investigations.
The incident unfolded at Newton MRT station and was captured in a clip posted on Reddit, drawing sharp concern from the public.
Teen Appeared Disoriented Before Fall at MRT Exit
In the footage, the 17-year-old boy is seen rising from his seat and clutching a pole for balance. As the MRT train doors opened, he staggered forward before suddenly falling backward, landing heavily on the platform floor.
Other passengers appeared visibly shocked. A few approached him to offer help, but the teen reportedly gestured that he was alright. He struggled to get up independently, trembling as he pushed himself off the floor with both arms. The video ended shortly after.
The footage quickly went viral, with netizens speculating whether the teen had consumed Kpods — a type of drug-laced e-vape product that has gained notoriety online. One commenter said similar behaviour was seen in Punggol, raising alarm about the potential spread of such substances.
HSA Confirms Vape Possession, Launches Investigation
Soon after the video gained traction, HSA issued a statement on Instagram identifying the youth as a 17-year-old found with an e-vaporiser and pod. The authority confirmed he is cooperating with ongoing investigations. The agency also reminded the public of the dangers and illegality of vaping in Singapore.
Singapore maintains strict anti-vaping laws, with the sale, use or possession of e-vaporisers being a punishable offence. Offenders can face fines of up to S$2,000 for first-time offences, while repeat offenders may be subjected to harsher penalties.
Recurring MRT Vaping Incidents Raise Concerns
This is far from an isolated case. Multiple vaping incidents have been reported on MRT trains in recent years. In March 2025, a woman was caught vaping on board, prompting a raid of her home that uncovered more vaping paraphernalia. In August 2024, a dazed man was also filmed vaping on a train before stumbling out.
Even in 2022, SMRT filed a police report after a man was spotted using an e-vaporiser on the East-West Line. The crackdown has been ongoing since at least 2020, when three teenagers were fined for vaping onboard public transport.
Growing Public Health Threat of Illicit Vape Products
The rise in vape-related cases — especially involving young individuals — points to a worrying trend. High-traffic areas like MRT stations and shopping malls appear to be hot spots for such incidents. In some cases, vape products may be laced with illicit substances, including synthetic cannabinoids or depressants, which pose serious health risks.
Singapore’s authorities continue to warn against these products, emphasising their unknown chemical contents and unpredictable side effects. Parents, educators and youth advocates are being urged to remain vigilant.
Authorities have also begun deploying vape disposal bins, such as the one recently seen in Bedok, to encourage safe surrender of these banned items — a move signalling increasing concern over the growing availability of e-vaporisers.
As investigations into the teen’s case continue, the HSA has reiterated that it will take firm action against anyone found using or distributing such products.
If you see anyone vaping in public transport or public areas, report the incident through official channels or contact the authorities directly.