Authorities have conducted targeted enforcement operations against the use of electronic vaporisers, resulting in fines for several individuals in northern Singapore. The Health Sciences Authority, in a joint operation with the National Environment Agency, carried out enforcement activities from October 8 to 10.
The operations were initiated based on information received from the public through official reporting channels. Following these reports, the Health Sciences Authority identified specific areas with high levels of vaping activity, described as hotspots, in the neighborhoods of Khatib, Yishun, and Punggol. Enforcement actions were then focused on these locations.
During the operations, five individuals were caught and fined for vaping offences. Their ages ranged from 15 to 37 years old. A total of six electronic vaporisers and their components were seized by the authorities. One of the confiscated devices was suspected to contain a substance known as etomidate, often referred to as Kpod, and has been sent to a laboratory for analysis. In a separate but related incident during the same operations, one person under the age of 21 was caught for the offence of smoking.
This recent enforcement action follows a similar operation in September, where four people were caught vaping in Tampines and the Central Business District, leading to the seizure of 27 vaporisers. The increased enforcement coincides with stricter penalties for vaping-related offences that took effect on September 1. Under the new framework, fines for vaping have been increased. Individuals under 18 now face a fine of $500, while adults face a $700 fine. The penalties are more severe for those caught using vaporisers suspected to contain etomidate (Kpods), involving mandatory rehabilitation and supervision for repeat offenders.
The Health Sciences Authority has reminded the public that they can report vaping offences through dedicated hotlines or an online portal.
To report vaping, call the Tobacco Regulation Branch (6684-2036 / 6684-2037, 9am-9pm daily) or use the online portal: www.go.gov.sg/reportvape.
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