SINGAPORE: In a significant crackdown on vaping products, a 25-year-old man was arrested on 18 September 2024 for allegedly attempting to smuggle more than 9,200 e-vaporiser pods into Singapore. This operation was a joint effort among the Singapore Police Force, the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA), and the Health Sciences Authority (HSA).
Vape Pods Disguised as Power Banks
The e-vaporiser pods were discovered during enhanced checks on an incoming cargo container identified as suspicious at the Pasir Panjang Scanning Station. The consignment was deceptively declared as “power banks.” Upon further inspection, ICA officers found a total of 9,200 vape pods concealed within the shipment.
Seizure Value and Additional Findings
Alongside the vape pods, the authorities also found 85 additional vapes and related components in the man’s possession. The total estimated street value of these seized items is over S$51,000 (approximately US$39,500).
Strict Regulations Aimed at Vaping Products
According to the law under the Tobacco (Control of Advertisements and Sale) Act, importing or selling e-vaporisers and their components is strictly prohibited. Offenders can face hefty penalties:
- First offence: Fine up to S$10,000, or imprisonment of up to six months, or both.
- Second or subsequent offences: Fine up to S$20,000, or imprisonment of up to 12 months, or both.
In further efforts to combat vaping in Singapore, penalties for users have also been increased starting 1 September 2024. Those caught using e-vaporisers repeatedly may be subjected to rehabilitation programmes, and failure to comply could lead to prosecution.
Support for Vaping Addiction
If you’re struggling with vaping addiction or need information on vaping offenses, various resources are available:
- To report vaping offences: Contact HSA’s Tobacco Regulation Branch at 6684-2036 / 6684-2037 (9am to 9pm daily).
- To quit vaping: Reach out to the Health Promotion Board’s I Quit programme at 1800-438-2000 (8am to 6pm, Monday to Friday).
As investigations continue, the authorities remind the public about the risks associated with vaping and encourage awareness of the laws surrounding tobacco and e-vaporisers.