The Health Sciences Authority (HSA) has launched investigations into two recent vaping incidents involving illegal e-vaporisers containing a potent medicinal ingredient and underage use.
These cases highlight ongoing efforts to curb the illegal sale and use of vaping products in the country.
On 24 April, HSA was alerted to a distressing incident involving a 13-year-old girl who was seen vaping in public outside the State Courts.
Witnesses reported that she was behaving erratically, unsteady in gait, and appeared oblivious to her surroundings, signs consistent with possible drug intoxication.
Following the report, HSA officers raided her residence and seized an e-vaporiser, which laboratory tests confirmed contained etomidate, a powerful medicinal ingredient meant solely for medical use under supervision.
In a swift follow-up, HSA identified and apprehended the individual responsible for selling the e-vaporiser to the girl. The seller, a 25-year-old male, and his 26-year-old wife are currently assisting with investigations.
During the raid, authorities also seized one e-vaporiser and three pods from the seller’s premises, all of which were found to contain etomidate.
Etomidate is an anesthetic used in clinical settings, but its misuse poses serious health risks. Adverse effects include nausea, vomiting, uncontrollable muscle spasms, respiratory and blood pressure changes, seizures, psychosis, and physical dependence. Its presence in e-vaporisers sold illegally raises significant safety concerns.
In addition to this case, HSA is investigating a separate incident involving a 36-year-old man who was filmed vaping on an MRT train, as posted in a social media video on 18 April 2025.
HSA conducted a raid at his residence but did not find any e-vaporisers.
The man claimed he had disposed of his device, and investigations are ongoing.
Under Singapore law, the purchase, possession, and use of e-vaporisers are prohibited under the Tobacco (Control of Advertisements and Sale) Act.
This prohibition covers online and cross-border purchases. HSA emphasizes its serious stance against violations, with offenders facing fines of up to $2,000.
Furthermore, possession or use of pods containing etomidate can lead to penalties under the Poisons Act, including imprisonment for up to two years and/or fines of up to $10,000 upon conviction.
Public awareness resources are available to help educate and support smokers. The HealthHub website offers information on the harms of e-vaporisers, while the HSA website details prohibited tobacco products.
The Health Promotion Board’s toll-free Quitline at 1800-438-2000 provides assistance to those seeking to quit smoking.
HSA encourages the public to assist in enforcement efforts by reporting illegal activities. Citizens can contact the Tobacco Regulation Branch at Tel: 6684 2036 or 6684 2037 during office hours (9:00am to 5:30pm, Monday to Friday).
Those who witness vaping activities are also invited to voluntarily submit clear photographs or videos of offenders, including details of the location, date, and time, to hsa_trb@hsa.gov.sg. Such evidence is vital in helping authorities identify and take action against offenders.
Image via Health Science Authority Singapore
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