HSA raids residence of 13-year-old girl who allegedly vaped in front of the State Courts

On Apr. 24, HSA was alerted to a case involving a girl who was allegedly vaping and behaving erratically outside the state courts.

She was allegedly unsteady in gait, and appeared to be oblivious of her surroundings.

HSA noted this was a sign of possible drug intoxication.

HSA identified the 13-year-old girl and raided her residence.

They seized one e-vaporiser that has been tested to contain etomidate, a medicinal ingredient used in clinical practice as an anaesthetic agent.

According to HSA, etomidate should only be administered under medical supervision.

Adverse effects of etomidate include nausea and vomiting, uncontrollable movement or spasm of muscles, changes to breathing and blood pressure, seizures and psychosis as well as physical dependence.

HSA also identified and caught the person who allegedly sold the e-vaporiser to the girl.

One e-vaporiser and three pods seized from the seller were also found to contain etomidate.

The 13-year-old girl, the 25-year-old male seller and his 26-year-old wife are assisting in the investigation.

The purchase, possession and use of e-vaporisers are prohibited in Singapore under the Tobacco (Control of Advertisements and Sale) Act. This includes purchases made through the Internet and from overseas.

HSA takes a serious view of these offences and will take stern action against those who violate the law. Offenders can be fined up to S$2,000.

Those found possessing or using pods containing etomidate are also liable upon conviction to a maximum penalty of imprisonment for up to two years and/or fined up to S$10,000 under the Poisons Act.

Image from HSA and Mothership