HSA said on Tuesday it will continue to work closely with agencies, such as the police, Central Narcotics Bureau, ICA, MINDEF, National Parks Board and National Environment Agency to take stern enforcement actions against those who import, sell, distribute, possess, use or purchase vapes, particularly those laced with etomidate.
Likewise, MINDEF said that, together with the SAF, it adopts a “zero-tolerance policy towards the possession and use of e-vaporisers”.
“Such acts constitute a breach of military discipline and is also a civil offence. Service personnel found in possession of e-vaporisers or other prohibited items will be dealt with firmly, and disciplinary actions may include detention.”
Police and SCDF also said they “take a serious stance against the possession and use of e-vaporisers and will not hesitate to take officers who are found to be in possession of e-vaporisers to task”. Errant officers will be referred to HSA and face internal disciplinary action.
In his National Day Rally speech, Prime Minister Lawrence Wong brought up vaping and that Singapore will treat it as a “drug issue”. He added the authorities will impose “much stiffer” penalties, including jail sentences and more severe punishments for those who sell vapes with harmful substances.
The purchase, possession and use of vapes are prohibited in Singapore. This includes purchases made online and from overseas. Offenders can be fined up to S$2,000 (US$1,555).
Anyone convicted of importing, distributing, selling or offering for sale vapes or components can be fined up to S$10,000, jailed for up to six months or both. For subsequent offences, the maximum penalties are doubled.
Those who are found possessing or using pods containing etomidate may be jailed for up to two years, fined up to S$10,000 or both.
But with etomidate set to be classified as a Class C Drug under the Misuse of Drugs Act from Sep 1, those penalties are poised to increase.
“This will enable tougher actions against suppliers and users of etomidate e-vaporisers, while MOH considers the necessary legislation amendments to deal with etomidate and other similar substances,” HSA and the Health Ministry added.
“Users can be subject to supervision and mandatory participation in a rehabilitation programme, or admitted to drug rehabilitation centres. Offenders can also be prosecuted and may face imprisonment or caning. HSA strongly warns those who are using e-vaporisers to stop use immediately.”
