Over 18,400 vapes, 1,400 related components uncovered in lorry at Tuas Checkpoint
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The items and the suspect have been referred to the Health Sciences Authority for further investigation.
PHOTO: ICA
SINGAPORE – More than 18,400 e-vaporisers and 1,400 related components were uncovered in a lorry at Tuas Checkpoint on Sept 15.
This is the largest haul of smuggled e-vaporisers detected at Singapore’s land checkpoints since stronger penalties against vaping took effect on Sept 1
At about 7am on Sept 15, the Malaysia-registered lorry was profiled through a pre-arrival risk assessment by ICA’s Integrated Targeting Centre, and was directed for enhanced checks.
It was declared as carrying “components for motorised external roll-up blinds”, ICA said.
The vapes and vape-related components were detected during the inspection.
A Malaysian man has been arrested in connection with the case, ICA added.
The items and the suspect have been referred to the Health Sciences Authority for further investigation.
Singapore is taking a whole-of-government approach to tackling vaping, which is now considered a drug issue, with stiffer penalties imposed
Since Sept 1, anybody caught possessing, using or buying vapes will face higher penalties.
Abusers of vapes laced with synthetic drugs like etomidate or ketamine, also known as Kpods, can be subject to rehabilitation, mandatory supervision and detention.
Etomidate, which was previously listed under the Poisons Act, has been listed as a Class C drug under the Misuse of Drugs Act since Sept 1. Kpod sellers face higher penalties under this Act.
Those who wish to quit vaping can seek help at the Health Promotion Board’s QuitLine on 1800-438-2000.
