ICA steps up checks for vapes at S'pore's borders, 184 cases detected in 5 days

As part of the recent efforts by the Singaporean government to stem the use of vapes, the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) has stepped up its checks at Singapore's borders against vape smuggling.

The stepped up checks, which commenced on Aug. 18, led to the detection of 184 cases and more than 850 vapes and related parts between Aug. 18 and 22.

The enhanced checks will be enforced across all of Singapore's borders, including at coastal checkpoints such as Singapore Cruise Centre and Harbourfront Ferry Terminal.

No penalties if voluntarily declared

An ICA spokesperson shared that while efforts to detect vape smuggling had been in place all along, the enhanced checks will see ICA officers take more measures to detect vapes.

For example, ICA officers at airport arrival halls will increase the number and frequency of passengers selected for bag screening at green channels.

Mothership visited one such checkpoint at Changi Airport's Terminal 1 on Aug. 22 to observe ICA's stepped up enforcement against vape.

Displayed prominently at the checkpoint were two banners informing arriving passengers of contraband items, including vape.

Notably, there was also a sign that read, "Vaping is prohibited", and a red bin for the disposal of vapes and other contraband items.

At the checkpoint, ICA officers approached travellers and requested for them to undergo checks.

When guiding them to the x-ray machine, ICA officers could be heard asking the travellers if they had any items to declare, such as vapes.

Over the course of two hours, at least four parties of travellers voluntarily declared their vapes.

None of the travellers who underwent the checks were found in possession of vapes without declaring beforehand.

All travellers who were approached to undergo checks at the green channel were cooperative with the officers.

Travellers who declared their vapes were then guided to the red bin, where they witnessed their disposal together with an ICA officer.

Officers then reminded travellers that vaping is prohibited in Singapore before concluding the screening process.

Depending on the amount, travellers who promptly declare their vapes will not be penalised.

However, those who fail to declare and are later detected by officers to be in possession of vapes will be liable to fines or be referred to by the Health Sciences Authority for investigation.

The purchase, possession and use of vapes are prohibited in Singapore under the Tobacco (Control of Advertisements and Sale) Act.

Offenders face up to S$2,000 in fines.

It is also an offence to import, distribute, sell or offer for sale e-vaporisers and their components.

First-time offenders are liable to a fine of up to $10,000, or imprisonment of up to six months or both for the first offence.

Repeat offenders face a fine of up to $20,000, or imprisonment of up to 12 months or both.

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Top image via Gawain Pek