The Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) tackled an impressive smuggling attempt on 15 September 2024, confiscating over 18,400 e-vaporisers and more than 1,400 associated components at Tuas Checkpoint. The discovery marks a significant event in Singapore’s ongoing battle against illegal vaping products.
Details of the Seizure
Officers at 7am intercepted a Malaysia-registered lorry which had initially declared itself as transporting “components for motorised external roll-up blinds”. Thanks to the pre-arrival assessment conducted by ICA’s Integrated Targeting Centre, the lorry was directed for enhanced checks, leading to the largest haul of smuggled vapes at a land checkpoint since stricter penalties for vape-related offences were introduced on 1 September 2024.
Legal Implications
- Stronger penalties effective from 1 September 2024 include heftier fines for both users and suppliers of e-vaporisers.
- Vaping products that contain substances like etomidate, classified as Class C drugs under the Misuse of Drugs Act, have heightened the urgency of enforcement actions.
Ongoing Investigations
A Malaysian man was arrested in connection with this case and has been referred to the Health Sciences Authority for further investigation. According to ICA, this operation underscores the importance of maintaining border security as part of its wider enforcement strategy against e-vaporisers.
Community Support for Vaping Addictions
For those struggling with vaping or seeking support, resources are available:
- To report vaping offences, contact the Health Sciences Authority’s Tobacco Regulation Branch at 6684-2036 / 6684-2037 (9am to 9pm daily).
- For assistance in quitting vaping, reach out to the Health Promotion Board’s I Quit programme at 1800-438-2000 (8am to 6pm, Monday to Friday).
- For more extensive addiction support, you can visit the Health Hub online.
ICA reiterates its commitment to maintaining Singapore’s borders and the safety of its citizens.