A significant crackdown on vape-related drug trafficking in Singapore has led to the arrest and charging of a 26-year-old man, Tian Jiacheng. This operation marks the Central Narcotics Bureau’s (CNB) first major initiative against vape pods containing etomidate, also known locally as Kpods, since stricter laws were introduced on 1 September 2024.
Details of the Charges
Tian was charged with two counts under the Misuse of Drugs Act after he was apprehended during an anti-drug raid on 10 September 2024. According to court documents, he was selling vape pods believed to contain etomidate to a buyer identified as Wong Jun Xiang and was also involved in delivering packets of these pods to a courier named Muhammad Nuh Noordin.
Operation Background
- The raid took place in a three-room flat at Telok Blangah Rise.
- A total of 327 e-vaporiser pods and other vape-related items were seized.
- Eight individuals were arrested in the operation, including Tian.
The authorities are tackling the rising issue of drug-laced vapes, as etomidate was classified as a Class C drug under new regulations launched this month. This change makes trafficking, manufacturing, or even possessing etomidate illegal without proper authorisation.
Potential Consequences
If convicted, Tian faces serious penalties: a minimum of two years’ imprisonment and two strokes of the cane, up to a maximum of ten years’ imprisonment and five strokes. His case has been adjourned for a pre-trial conference scheduled for 13 October 2024.
As the CNB continues its crackdown, it highlights Singapore’s commitment to combat drug misuse and trafficking, especially in emerging areas like vaping.