Commuter caught with vape at Bishan MRT station during practice checks

Around 60 people in Singapore were allegedly caught for vaping offences since Aug. 18 after authorities stepped up checks on public transport and interchanges.

In a statement on Sep. 29, a Land Transport Authority (LTA) spokesperson said LTA officers and Public Transport Operators (PTOS) staff are carrying out patrols and security checks to tackle the use or possession of vapes.

A commuter was caught at Bishan MRT station on Sep. 29 during a media event demonstrating such measures.

Cases caught through security screening

The LTA spokesperson said frontline staff employed by PTOs and LTA enforcement officers are empowered to serve notices and seize e-vaporisers before handing them over to the Health Sciences Authority (HSA).

PTO staff carry out active patrols and checks on buses, trains as well as at interchanges to deter and detect those who are illegally using or possessing vape devices.

These patrols and checks also utilise security measures, such as surveillance cameras and random inspections.

On the other hand, LTA enforcement officers are also on the lookout on roads, active mobility paths and at public transport facilities for such offences.

Around 60 people have been caught across MRT stations, bus interchanges, trains, buses and public paths or roads.

Over 90 per cent of the cases on public transport were detected through security screening, using X-ray machines and walk-through metal detectors at MRT stations.

"Through visible patrols, engagement and joint operations with PTOs and other agencies, we continue to ensure a safe and pleasant commuting environment for everyone," the spokesperson added.

Commuter caught at Bishan MRT, tried to flee

One commuter was caught during an LTA event to demonstrate to the media how such patrols are carried out.

According to The Straits Times, the teenager had dropped his bag and ran when stopped near the fare gates of Bishan MRT station for a check.

Security officers at the station, who noticed him throwing something into the bushes, found an e-vaporiser.

The commuter later returned to claim his bag and admitted that he owned the vape device.

SMRT Trains station manager Muhammad Altamis confiscated the device and handed the commuter’s details to HSA.

Top photos by Mothership