Enforcement against vaping has intensified as Singapore clamps down on the practice.
On Sep 9, the Ministry of Health and HSA said that more than 5,000 frontline enforcement officers have been authorised to enforce vaping rules – almost twice the previous number.
Stricter penalties against vaping kicked in on Sep 1, with first-time offenders under 18 facing an increased fine of S$500 while those 18 and above will be fined S$700.
Second-time offenders must undergo a three-month rehabilitation programme. Third or subsequent offenders will be prosecuted under the Tobacco (Control of Advertisements and Sale) Act (TCASA) and subject to a maximum fine of S$2,000.
The penalties are harsher for those found using etomidate-laced vapes, known as Kpods. Etomidate, an anaesthetic agent, was listed as a Class C drug under the Misuse of Drugs Act on Sep 1.
Under the new framework, Kpod offenders must attend rehabilitation programmes in addition to paying higher fines. Those who do not complete the programme will be prosecuted.
