Malaysian bus driver caught smuggling thousands of e-cigarette cartridges through Woodlands Checkpoint
What began as a side hustle to support family expenses ended in a jail sentence, highlighting Singapore’s increasingly tough stance on vaping-related crimes.
A Job Offer That Led to Arrest
Mahendran K.V.K. Samy, a 32-year-old Malaysian bus driver, was sentenced on Jan 7 to three months and one week in jail after pleading guilty to importing imitation tobacco products into Singapore. The offence took place on July 8, 2025, when he was stopped at Woodlands Checkpoint during a routine inspection.
Financial Pressure and a Risky Decision
Court documents revealed that Mahendran earned about RM2,500 a month, or approx. S$800, which he said was insufficient to support his family. Two weeks before his arrest, he received a call from an unknown individual offering RM2,000 in cash for a single delivery of e-cigarette paraphernalia into Singapore. Despite never meeting the person, Mahendran accepted the offer.
How the Smuggling Operation Worked
Following instructions from the caller, whom he referred to as “Abang,” Mahendran left his bus unattended in Johor Baru, allowing the goods to be loaded without his presence. He was later instructed to drive the bus into Singapore on July 8 and await further delivery instructions after clearing Customs.
Detection at Woodlands Checkpoint
At around 4.20pm, officers directed the bus for scanning after noticing anomalies. According to Health Sciences Authority prosecutor Jolene Chia, Mahendran appeared reluctant to open the luggage compartment and initially claimed he did not have the key. Officers then spotted suspicious cardboard materials, prompting a full inspection.
Thousands of Vaping Cartridges Seized
The search uncovered 3,899 e-cigarette cartridges hidden inside the compartment. Prosecutors sought a 20-week jail term, citing the rising prevalence of vaping offences and Singapore’s move toward stricter enforcement.
Courts Emphasize Deterrence
District Judge Terrence Tay noted that vaping has become an increasing problem in Singapore, particularly among youths. He stressed that deterrence was the key sentencing consideration. This aligns with Prime Minister Lawrence Wong’s National Day Rally speech on Aug 17, 2025, where he announced tougher action against vaping nationwide.
Legal Consequences Under Singapore Law
Under Singapore law, importing imitation tobacco products carries penalties of up to S$10,000 in fines, six months’ jail, or both. In mitigation, Mahendran apologized to the court and cited his responsibilities toward his mother and siblings.
The case underscores Singapore’s zero-tolerance approach to vaping and cross-border smuggling, sending a clear warning to those tempted by quick cash. For Indonesians and Singaporeans alike, it highlights the serious legal risks tied to illicit trade and the region’s shared responsibility in upholding public health and border security.
Sources: Straits Times (2026) , The Star (2026)
Keywords: E Cigarettes, Woodlands Checkpoint, Health Sciences Authority, Vaping Laws, Cross Border Smuggling
