Singapore, 23 October 2024 – A total of 3,840 individuals were arrested and fined for possession or use of electronic cigarettes, commonly known as vapes, from 1 July to 30 September 2024. This marks a significant 52% increase compared to the previous quarter, according to a joint statement released by the Ministry of Health (MOH) and the Health Sciences Authority (HSA).
Of the total cases, 743 involved students who were caught using vapes, having been referred by schools and institutes of higher learning (IHL). The authorities also identified 591 cases during community enforcement patrols, 44 cases in operations around IHL campuses, and 16 cases at border checkpoints.
Additionally, HSA has been monitoring online content to identify individuals vaping in public spaces or sharing photos and videos of themselves with vapes on social media. In July and August 2024, five individuals—four males and one female, aged between 13 and 34—were fined after posting such content on Instagram and TikTok. These posts have since been removed.
As part of efforts to curb the use of vapes, schools, and IHLs have stepped up preventive education programs, highlighting the harmful effects of vaping and promoting a nicotine-free lifestyle. The education initiatives also emphasize the illegality of vapes and their impact on individuals, families, and society.
In a separate case in September 2024, a 49-year-old man was caught vaping inside an MRT cabin, an incident that was widely shared on social media. Following this, HSA conducted a search of the man’s residence in Tampines, where they found a vape and drug paraphernalia. The man was also wanted by the Central Narcotics Bureau (CNB) and is now assisting both HSA and CNB in their investigations.
From 1 July to 30 September 2024, HSA and the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) conducted joint operations at air, land, and sea checkpoints. Out of 4,000 visitors screened, 16 were arrested for possessing vapes. The MOH and HSA have warned that transportation companies and drivers found bringing illegal tobacco products into Singapore will face enforcement action. Foreigners convicted of such offenses will be deported and barred from re-entering the country.
Under the Tobacco (Control of Advertisements and Sale) Act, the possession, use, or purchase of vapes is punishable by a maximum fine of $2,000. Offenders who are issued composition fines are encouraged to settle them promptly. Those who fail to do so by the given deadline will face harsher penalties in court.
Members of the public with information on the importation, distribution, sale, or offering for sale of vapes are urged to contact the HSA’s Tobacco Regulation Branch at 6684-2036 or 6684-2037 during office hours (Monday to Friday, 9 am to 5:30 pm).
