Five people were caught with e-vaporisers in Khatib, Yishun and Punggol. Ages ranged from 15 to 37. All received the maximum on-the-spot fine of $2,000.
The Health Sciences Authority (HSA) acted on public tip-offs about vaping hot spots in these neighbourhoods. They then ran targeted enforcement operations.
Six Devices Seized, One May Contain Sedative Drug
Officers seized six e-vaporisers and related components. One device is suspected to contain etomidate, a sedative-hypnotic drug. The pod has been sent for lab testing.
A separate operation in Punggol saw someone under 21 caught for smoking, The Straits Times reported.
Tougher Penalties Now Active
Singapore’s enhanced enforcement framework brought stricter consequences for vape offenders.
First-time etomidate abusers aged 18 and above get a $700 fine. They must also attend rehab for up to six months. Repeat offenders face investigations, drug tests and mandatory six-month monitoring that includes rehab.
The Tobacco (Control of Advertisements and Sale) Act sets the maximum fine for possessing, using or buying e-vaporisers at $2,000.
Enforcement Ramped Up Across Singapore
HSA has authorised more than 5,000 frontline officers from various agencies to enforce against vape users. That’s nearly double the previous enforcement force.
The numbers tell the story. Between 1 Sep and 7 Sep 2025, 232 people were caught for vape-related offences. That’s just the first week after enhanced penalties kicked in.
From 1 Apr to 30 Jun 2025, more than 3,700 people were caught and fined for possessing or using e-vaporisers. This marked a 20 per cent jump from the previous quarter.
