A Singapore Armed Forces national serviceman was released from custody on 2 Aug 2025 after being detained for allegedly vaping on a public bus. The Ministry of Defence confirmed investigations continue.
Video clips circulated on social media from 31 Jul 2025 showed a man in green army No. 4 uniform sitting at the back of a public bus. The footage captured him placing what appeared to be an e-vaporiser device in his mouth. His uniform displayed no formation tag.
Mindef identified the individual after reviewing the online footage. Officials placed him in SAF custody to assist with investigations.
The SAF maintains strict policies on e-vaporiser possession and use among personnel. The military treats violations as both disciplinary matters and national law offences.
Service personnel caught with e-vaporisers face disciplinary action. Penalties range from fines up to S$1,000 to detention. The severity depends on whether devices contain controlled substances.
Mindef stated the SAF runs awareness and education programmes beyond enforcement. The military provides cessation counselling and support services. Personnel needing help can approach their commanders or medical officers.
Singapore has stepped up efforts against vaping nationwide. The Health Sciences Authority seized over S$41 million worth of vapes and components between Jan 2024 and Mar 2025.
Health Minister Ong Ye Kung revealed on 20 Jul 2025 that Kpods comprised one-third of more than 100 randomly tested seized vapes. These vapes contain etomidate, a dangerous substance. Several deaths in Singapore, including traffic accidents and unnatural deaths, have been linked to etomidate.
The Ministry of Health, HSA and People’s Association launched the Bin The Vape initiative on 25 Jul 2025. Officials installed vape disposal bins at 23 community clubs and one residents’ network centre. Users can dispose of devices without facing punishment.
Home Affairs Minister K Shanmugam announced on 30 Jul 2025 that his ministry will second officers to HSA for enforcement help. These officers will handle supervision, treatment and rehabilitation of etomidate abusers.
The Home Affairs Ministry will list etomidate as a Class C drug under the Misuse of Drugs Act. Currently classified as a poison under the Poisons Act, the reclassification subjects users to supervision and mandatory rehabilitation programmes. Some may be committed to drug rehabilitation centres.
Singapore law imposes fines up to S$2,000 for possessing, using or purchasing vapes. First-time offenders who import, distribute, sell or offer prohibited tobacco products including vapes face fines up to S$10,000. They may also receive jail terms up to six months, or both penalties.
Repeat offenders face fines up to S$20,000, imprisonment up to 12 months, or both.
The public can report vaping-related offences through HSA’s reporting hotline at 6684-2036 or 6684-2037. The hotline operates from 9am to 9pm daily, including public holidays. Reports can also be made online at www.go.gov.sg/reportvape.
