Singaporean authorities have announced tougher penalties for vaping as they attempt to crack down on the increasing use of drug-laced vapes in the country. These include stiffer fines, longer jail terms, and even caning, with foreigners facing potential deportation.
Despite being one of the first countries to ban vaping in 2018, the practice has persisted. Recently, there has been a noted rise in popularity of vapes laced with etomidate, an anaesthetic drug, causing alarm. According to the government's findings, a third of a random sample of 100 seized vapes contained this substance.
Health Minister Ong Ye Kung emphasized the need for stricter laws, stating that vapes have become a gateway to serious substance abuse. The tougher laws will reclassify etomidate as a Class C controlled drug for six months, with new penalties coming into effect on September 1. Offenders caught with regular vapes will face fines starting at S$500, while those with drug-laced vapes can expect even harsher penalties.
The crackdown does not spare tourists, with the government planning to place signs in places like Changi Airport reminding visitors of the vaping ban and providing bins for safe disposal.
These measures are part of a larger public health campaign and will be accompanied by increased enforcement efforts across various public areas.
Despite being one of the first countries to ban vaping in 2018, the practice has persisted. Recently, there has been a noted rise in popularity of vapes laced with etomidate, an anaesthetic drug, causing alarm. According to the government's findings, a third of a random sample of 100 seized vapes contained this substance.
Health Minister Ong Ye Kung emphasized the need for stricter laws, stating that vapes have become a gateway to serious substance abuse. The tougher laws will reclassify etomidate as a Class C controlled drug for six months, with new penalties coming into effect on September 1. Offenders caught with regular vapes will face fines starting at S$500, while those with drug-laced vapes can expect even harsher penalties.
The crackdown does not spare tourists, with the government planning to place signs in places like Changi Airport reminding visitors of the vaping ban and providing bins for safe disposal.
These measures are part of a larger public health campaign and will be accompanied by increased enforcement efforts across various public areas.
