Vaping-related offences soar as Singapore’s HSA tightens enforcement and unveils online reporting tool
Vaping continues to rise sharply in Singapore, with more than 2,500 reports made in just the first six months of 2025. In response, the Health Sciences Authority (HSA) is boosting its enforcement operations and launching new tools for public reporting.
Spike in Reports, Surge in Enforcement
The Health Sciences Authority (HSA) announced on July 20 that it has received more than 2,500 vaping-related reports from the public in the first half of 2025. This marks a sharp rise compared to the 3,000 reports filed throughout 2024, highlighting a worsening trend in illegal vaping activity.
These reports have directly led to heightened enforcement actions, including large-scale raids and multiple arrests. In one of the most significant seizures this year, officers confiscated nearly three tonnes of vaping devices and components from a 21-year-old suspect operating in Bishan and Ubi. Identified as Malaysian Chong Jun Keong, he was charged in court on July 14, with proceedings set to resume on August 11.
Youth Offences and Dangerous Substances
Among the most concerning cases was the arrest of two 16-year-old boys caught vaping inside a Grab vehicle on May 18. Prompt action by the driver, who alerted traffic police, led to the seizure of two vapes and a subsequent raid on one of the boys’ homes. Authorities found 54 vape pods and three devices, some of which tested positive for etomidate, a fast-acting anaesthetic classified as a poison under the Poisons Act.
Etomidate can trigger severe health effects, including seizures, muscle spasms, and psychosis. This case underscores the growing risk posed by chemically altered vape pods, often known as “Kpods”.
Public Tip-Offs Drive Raids
HSA’s crackdown has been significantly fueled by tip-offs and viral social media content. A case from April 30, where a 24-year-old man was filmed vaping inside a lift at Sim Lim Square, led to a residence raid and the seizure of two vapes.
Another viral video from May 19 showed a 58-year-old man shaking uncontrollably on a road while holding a vape. Though no devices were found at his residence, the man admitted to vaping and was fined by the authorities.
Online Reporting and Hotline Expansion
To facilitate quicker action, HSA has launched an online reporting portal at go.gov.sg/reportvape, available from July 21. In tandem, the Tobacco Regulation Branch hotline has extended its hours to operate 9am to 9pm daily, including public holidays.
These steps aim to streamline public feedback and allow faster responses to vaping incidents. HSA emphasized that social media content and public submissions have become critical surveillance tools, enhancing their ability to track offenders and illegal sales.
Rising Trend Demands Stronger Response
With a noticeable spike in vaping offences, particularly among youth, HSA is stepping up its vigilance. Authorities are not only targeting individual offenders but also dismantling broader distribution networks, some of which involve dangerous drug-laced vape pods.
This upward trend reflects the urgent need for education, regulation, and community vigilance. The involvement of minors and the appearance of psychoactive substances in vape devices signal a troubling evolution of the issue.
The surge in vaping reports and the discovery of harmful substances in vape pods mark a growing health and safety crisis in Singapore. For neighbouring regions like Indonesia—where vape products also circulate—Singapore’s intensified crackdown highlights the importance of proactive enforcement and public cooperation. As digital platforms become tools for surveillance and accountability, public awareness and swift reporting remain key to curbing the vape epidemic.
Sources: CNA (2025) , Must Share News (2025)
Keywords: Vaping Reports, Etomidate Pods, HSA Enforcement, Vape Ban Singapore, Youth Vaping Cases, Public Feedback
