A severe crackdown is underway against those caught using e-cigarettes, especially if the devices contain illegal substances. New, harsher penalties are now in force. These include bigger fines, longer jail times, and even caning. This move highlights a growing worry about drug-laced vaping products making their way into the country.
Singapore was among the first nations to ban e-cigarettes back in 2018. Yet, despite these rules, the problem of vaping has stubbornly persisted. In recent months, officials have seen a worrying spread of e-cigarettes laced with etomidate, a powerful anesthetic. This situation is particularly alarming given Singapore’s famously strict drug laws.
The Ministry of Health has openly shared its concerns. They note a sharp rise in e-cigarettes mixed with drugs, often called “Kpods.” Tests on 100 confiscated e-cigarettes in July showed that a third of them contained etomidate. Videos spreading online also show young people behaving strangely after using these vapes. This has fueled public concern among citizens who generally support the government’s tough stance on drugs.
Mr. Ong Ye Kung, the country’s Health Minister, emphasized the need for these stronger laws. He stated that e-cigarettes have become a “gateway to harder drug use.” He also described them as a “drug delivery device.” This suggests a fear that vaping could lead users down a more dangerous path.
The government has put serious punishments in place for anyone caught with e-cigarettes. These rules started on September 1st. Those caught with regular e-cigarettes will pay a fine of S$500 and must attend mandatory counseling. If the e-cigarette contains etomidate, the penalties are far more severe.
People who sell drug-laced e-cigarettes face even greater consequences. They could spend up to 20 years in jail and receive 15 strokes of a cane. Foreigners caught breaking these laws face extra problems. Their work and residence permits could be taken away, and they might be deported. Tourists are also subject to these rules. To help visitors, authorities are putting up warning signs and special bins at Changi Airport. Tourists can dispose of their vaping devices there before entering the country.
These new measures are a temporary step, meant to last for six months. During this time, the government will study the issue further. They plan to create permanent laws to handle etomidate and any other new drugs that might be used in e-cigarettes in the future.
Alongside these strict laws, a public awareness campaign is in full swing. Warning ads can be seen on buses, trains, and in public areas. Collection bins for e-cigarettes have been placed in schools and community centers. Schools are also teaching students about the dangers of vaping. Officers are conducting random checks on trains, at transport stations, and in parks to catch offenders.
Border security has also been stepped up. Many e-cigarettes are smuggled in from neighboring countries like Malaysia and Indonesia. Officials are working hard to stop these illegal imports.
Singapore’s firm stand on e-cigarettes mirrors actions in other parts of the world. Many countries are bringing in tougher laws to reduce vaping, especially among young people. For example, the United Kingdom banned disposable e-cigarettes starting in June. Australia has also had a ban on e-cigarettes since 2023.
Source: BBC