In recent operations conducted by the Health Sciences Authority (HSA) and Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA), a significant amount of vapes worth over S$200,000 were seized from two different locations in Singapore.
The joint press release issued by HSA and ICA on Monday, 24 March, highlighted the successful crackdown on the illegal distribution of e-vaporisers, also known as vapes, in the region.
In the first instance, a substantial haul of vapes, amounting to approximately 5,000 e-vaporisers with a total value of about S$110,000, was seized from a Sungei Kadut warehouse on 28 February. This large-scale operation was the result of an extensive investigation, leading to the discovery of 25 cartons of illicit vapes hidden within the warehouse.
The authorities also made significant arrests in connection with the Sungei Kadut seizure. Two individuals, aged 32 and 31, were apprehended while attempting to collect the illegal shipment, and they are currently aiding HSA in ongoing investigations.
This development underscored the collaborative efforts between law enforcement agencies to not only confiscate the contraband but to also take legal action against those involved in the illegal trade.
The second seizure occurred on 1 March at the Tuas Checkpoint, where ICA officers intercepted a lorry attempting to enter Singapore. Upon conducting enhanced checks, the officers uncovered approximately 4,800 e-vaporisers hidden among the lorry’s cargo, with an estimated value of S$105,000. The 24-year-old male driver of the lorry is now cooperating with HSA investigations after the case was referred to the authority by ICA.
In response to these incidents, HSA emphasized the consequences that individuals and businesses involved in the illegal import, distribution, and sale of vapes may face. The statement highlighted the legal penalties, stating, “First-time offenders convicted for doing so face up to six months’ jail and/or a fine of up to S$10,000. Subsequent offenders are liable to be jailed for up to 12 months and/or fined up to S$20,000.”
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Furthermore, HSA and ICA warned both the public and retailers that importing, distributing, selling, or offering vapes and their components for sale is a punishable offence. They also urged individuals with information on vape-related offences to come forward and report such activities to HSA’s Tobacco Regulation Branch.
