Singapore Deploys Over 10,000 Officers to Tackle Vaping Crisis
Singapore has significantly ramped up its fight against vaping, empowering more than 10,000 officers to take action against vape-related offenses, a figure that doubled in just a month. This intensified enforcement comes as the Health Sciences Authority (HSA) detected nearly 10,000 vaping cases in the first eight months of 2025, according to Health Minister Ong Ye Kung.
A primary concern driving this crackdown is the emergence of vapes laced with dangerous substances, particularly etomidate, a sedative now listed under the Misuse of Drugs Act. Of the cases detected, 70 were linked to the possession and use of these etomidate-laced vapes (known as “Kpods”), and 38 involved their suppliers. “E-vaporisers now carry more dangerous substances… our fears have unfortunately come true,” Minister Ong stated in Parliament, highlighting that vapes can deliver anything from flavored nicotine to cannabis.
Vaping has been illegal in Singapore since 2018, and the government has recently enhanced punishments, which now include caning for Kpod suppliers, mandatory rehabilitation for etomidate abusers, and higher fines for general vape offenses. Enforcement efforts have led to the removal of over 2,800 online vape advertisements this year. With more than half of caught vape users being under 25, authorities are encouraging voluntary rehabilitation, with 74 people signing up in early September.
Rejecting “harm reduction” arguments, Minister Ong affirmed Singapore’s strict stance: “Ban it, enforce it. (You) go underground, we will go after you.” He announced that the Ministry of Health plans to enact new legislation in the first quarter of 2026 to continue adapting to the evolving substance abuse landscape.
- News source: Over 10,000 officers tackling vaping crisis in S’pore; nearly 10,000 cases in first 8 months of 2025
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