Zero tolerance policy against vaping: SAF to carry out more bag checks & urine testing

The Ministry of Defence (Mindef) has stepped up enforcement against vaping across Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) camps and bases, it announced in a Aug. 27 Facebook post.

Separately, the Singapore Police Force (SPF) also shared that, along with the Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF), they have conducted enhanced checks in its training schools.

Bag searches at SAF camps, bases

Mindef announced in its post that the SAF has stepped up security and routine enforcement checks across its camps and bases to deter service personnel from bringing prohibited items onto its premises.

"Mindef/ SAF adopts a zero-tolerance policy towards the possession and use of e-vaporisers," the ministry wrote.

It added that such acts constitute a breach of military discipline and is also a civil offence.

The stepped-up measures include bag searches for contraband items, unauthorised materials, and urine testing.

"Service personnel found in possession of e-vaporisers or other prohibited items will be dealt with firmly, and disciplinary actions may include detention," Mindef said.

On top of enforcement, Mindef and the SAF will provide cessation counselling and resources to help service personnel quit vaping.

Extra checks done by SPF and SCDF

Similarly, SPF said on Facebook that it and SCDF had conducted enhanced checks in its training schools at the Home Team Academy and Civil Defence Academy on Aug. 24, when trainees reported for their stay-in training.

"SCDF and SPF take a serious stance against the possession and use of e-vaporisers and will not hesitate to take officers who are found to be in possession of e-vaporisers to task," SPF said in the post.

SPF also said in addition to referring errant officers to the Health Sciences Authority, internal disciplinary action will be taken against them.

Top image via Mindef/ SPF Facebook