11-year-old among 3 caught vaping in Punggol enforcement operation

An 11-year-old was among three people fined for vaping during an enforcement operation in Punggol on Apr. 30.

The operation, conducted by the Health Sciences Authority (HSA) and the Singapore Police Force (SPF), was part of ongoing enforcement patrols to detect vape-related offences, according to HSA and SPF.

11-year old among three fined on the spot

Three people, aged between 11 and 29, were caught and fined on the spot for vaping.

They comprised two males and one female.

A 17-year-old male was also arrested for a suspected repeat etomidate offence, according to HSA and SPF.

His urine tested positive for etomidate.

Etomidate is an anaesthetic agent, and vape devices laced with the substance are also commonly referred to as Kpods.

Four vaporisers and related components seized

A total of four vaporisers and related components were seized during the operation.

This included one pod suspected to contain etomidate, which has been sent for testing, HSA and SPF said.

Another five males, aged between 17 and 20, were also caught for underage smoking.

They have been referred to the Health Promotion Board for cessation counselling.

Enhanced penalties from May 1

Enhanced penalties under the Tobacco and Vaporisers Control Act came into force on May 1.

Under the new penalties, those found vaping can be fined up to S$10,000.

Those found vaping etomidate can be fined up to S$20,000, jailed for up to 10 years, or both.

Previously, under the Tobacco (Control of Advertisements and Sale) Act 1993, individuals found possessing, using or purchasing vaporisers were liable for a fine of up to S$2,000, among other penalties.

In the last four months, more than 3,500 people were caught and fined for owning and using vapes, comprising 3,168 vape offenders and 366 Kpod abusers.