Crackdowns intensify as PM Lawrence Wong warns vaping will be treated as a drug issue.
Singapore’s Health Sciences Authority (HSA) has stepped up anti-vaping enforcement, seizing 82 e-vaporisers and components in two days of surprise operations at Raffles Place and Haji Lane, with 18 individuals caught for vape-related offences.
Lunchtime Crackdown in the CBD
On August 20, 2025, plainclothes HSA officers patrolled Singapore’s central business district during lunch hour, blending into the crowd. Over two hours, they caught 15 vapers, many at smoking corners and hidden spots such as stairwells. Journalists present observed offenders shocked but largely cooperative when surrendering their devices and providing details.
Wider Operations at Haji Lane
The CBD blitz followed a smaller operation a day earlier at Haji Lane, where three more individuals were caught. Together, the two-day stings led to the seizure of 82 vaping devices and components, including 62 heatsticks. All offenders were fined on the spot.
Rising Trend Despite Ban
Although vaping has been banned in Singapore since 2018, enforcement data shows rising cases. Between January 2024 and March 2025, HSA seized nearly S$41 million worth of vapes, about five times the total seized from 2019 to 2023. In the same period, over 17,900 people were caught for possession or use of vapes.
Government Stance: Vaping as a Drug Issue
At the National Day Rally 2025, Prime Minister Lawrence Wong announced harsher penalties, declaring that vaping will be treated as a drug problem. He warned of dangerous substances hidden in vapes, noting, “Right now, it is etomidate. In the future, it could be something worse – stronger or far more dangerous drugs.”
Kpods in the Spotlight
So-called Kpods—vapes laced with drugs like etomidate, ketamine, and methamphetamines—have become a major concern. Health Minister Ong Ye Kung previously confirmed that etomidate would be listed under the Misuse of Drugs Act, meaning Kpod abusers and traffickers will face mandatory rehabilitation or jail, similar to drug offenders.
Expanded Enforcement and Support
Recent multi-agency raids on August 15 at pubs, bars, and KTV lounges saw over 280 e-vaporisers seized and 115 offenders nabbed, five with suspected Kpods. Authorities have also launched public hotlines for reporting vape offences and encouraged voluntary participation in the I Quit programme, assuring that those seeking help will not be penalised.
Singapore’s intensified crackdown on vaping underscores the government’s determination to treat it as a public health and drug threat. With seizures rising, Kpods emerging, and enforcement widening, the coordinated efforts of HSA, police, and health authorities signal a tougher era of regulation—one aimed at protecting youth and curbing the spread of harmful substances.
Sources: CNA (2025) , Straits Times (2025)
Keywords: Vaping Singapore, HSA Enforcement, Vape Crackdown, Etomidate Vapes, CBD Operation, Drug Issue
