25-year-old allegedly caught with “Kpods,” a dangerous anaesthetic-laced vape linked to multiple health risks

A 25-year-old Singaporean woman, Low Hui Mei, was charged by the Health Sciences Authority (HSA) on October 24, 2025, for allegedly trafficking vape pods laced with etomidate, a controlled anaesthetic substance. The case adds to a growing number of vape-related offences in Singapore amid a nationwide crackdown.

Arrest at King George’s Avenue

On October 22, police patrolling King George’s Avenue conducted checks and found Low Hui Mei carrying several vapes and pods. Authorities from the Health Sciences Authority were alerted to the scene, where they seized 11 vape devices and 101 vape pods from her possession.

Laboratory tests later confirmed that the pods contained etomidate, a sedative with anaesthetic properties known to cause nausea, vomiting, muscle spasms, and seizures. The vapes, known locally as “Kpods,” are banned in Singapore due to their serious health risks and controlled substance content.

Trafficking and Legal Charges

According to charge sheets, Low allegedly possessed the pods for trafficking purposes at the void deck of Block 7, King George’s Avenue. Her case was formally brought before the court on October 24 and adjourned to October 31 for further investigation. She remains in remand custody.

Under Singapore’s Poison Act and related drug control laws, offenders trafficking etomidate-laced vapes face two to 10 years’ imprisonment and two to five strokes of the cane. While women are exempted from caning, the imprisonment term applies equally.

Rising Trend of Vape-Related Offences

The HSA reported that between September 1 and October 12, 1,339 individuals were caught for vape-related offences, including 102 cases involving Kpods. Eight individuals, among them a 17-year-old, were charged with trafficking during that period—highlighting the growing concern over the circulation of chemically laced vaping products.

Authorities emphasized that possession or use of such products is also an offence, punishable by up to two years’ imprisonment, a S$10,000 fine, or both.

Public Warning and Reporting

The HSA urged the public to stay vigilant and report any information on vaping activities or illegal distribution networks. Reports can be made to the Tobacco Regulation Branch via hotline 6684 2036 / 6684 2037 (9 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily) or online at http://www.go.gov.sg/reportvape.

Officials reiterated that enforcement remains strict as Singapore continues its zero-tolerance approach toward illegal vaping products, particularly those containing dangerous or controlled chemicals.

The arrest of Low Hui Mei underscores Singapore’s firm stance on illegal vaping products and the increasing danger posed by chemically laced vapes like Kpods. With rising cases and a public health threat at stake, authorities are intensifying enforcement and education efforts to safeguard communities from the growing vape trade.

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

Keywords: Kpods, Vape Trafficking, Etomidate, HSA, King George’s Avenue, Singapore Law