A 17-year-old boy faces multiple charges for vaping and trafficking meth, cannabis, and sedatives.

A 17-year-old Singaporean boy has been charged with possessing a vape device containing a cannabis-related substance and with trafficking drugs, including methamphetamine, cannabis, ketamine, and sedatives. His case, linked to another teenager, highlights Singapore’s tougher stance on vaping and drug offences.

The Charges

The boy, who cannot be named under the Children and Young Persons Act, received two vaping-related charges and five drug trafficking charges on September 3. He and another teenager, now 18, allegedly trafficked drugs on February 18 near Block 94 Toa Payoh Lorong 4.

Court documents state they were found with:

• 25 packets of cannabis (31.33g)
• Two packets of methamphetamine (26.29g)
• 85 nimetazepam tablets, a sedative drug
• Later that evening, the younger boy was found at a Jurong West flat allegedly with a vape containing cannabis-related substances.

Upcoming Court Dates

The younger boy is scheduled to plead guilty on October 13. The second boy’s case will be heard on September 8.

Tougher Penalties for Vaping

From September 1, Singapore rolled out harsher penalties:

• First-time offenders under 18: S$500 fine (previously S$300)
• Adults: S$700 fine (previously S$500)
• Repeat offenders: mandatory three-month rehabilitation programme
• Third or subsequent offences: prosecution under the Tobacco Act with fines up to S$2,000

Vapes Laced with Drugs

Authorities also tightened laws against synthetic drug-laced vapes, commonly known as Kpods. Etomidate, a drug found in these vapes, has been classified as a Class C substance under the Misuse of Drugs Act since September 1, making possession, trafficking, or consumption illegal without authorisation.

Government’s Position

Prime Minister Lawrence Wong announced in his National Day Rally on August 17 that vaping will be treated as a “drug issue.” Health Minister Ong Ye Kung also warned that young people make up the bulk of those caught vaping or abusing etomidate. He noted that curiosity and misconceptions about vaping often lead youths into substance abuse.

Health Risks of Etomidate

Etomidate abuse is linked to muscle spasms (myoclonus), tremors, sluggishness, and mental confusion. The Ministry of Health has urged the public to report suspected vaping offences to the Tobacco Regulation Branch or via the government portal.

The case of the 17-year-old accused underscores Singapore’s increasingly firm approach to vaping and drug-related offences. By classifying vaping as a drug issue and enacting harsher penalties, authorities aim to curb rising abuse among youths and safeguard public health.

Sources: CNA (2025) , Straits Times (2025)

Keywords: Teen Charged Singapore, Vape Cannabis Substance, Drug Trafficking Teen, Misuse Of Drugs Act, Etomidate Vapes, Singapore Court