15-year-old among 5 people caught vaping in Khatib, Yishun, Punggol after public tip-offs to HSA

SINGAPORE – Following reports from the public, the Health Sciences Authority (HSA) identified vaping hot spots in Khatib, Yishun and Punggol and fined five people for vaping.

Aged between 15 and 37, they were caught vaping during joint enforcement operations from Oct 8 to 10 conducted by HSA and the National Environment Agency.

In a statement on Oct 13, HSA said: “Following public feedback received from our reporting platforms, we identified vaping hot spots and conducted enforcement operations in these areas.”

A total of six vapes and components were seized, including one vape suspected to contain etomidate. HSA said the Kpod has been sent for testing.

Separately, one person under the age of 21 was caught smoking.

In September, four people, aged 24 to 43, were caught vaping during raids over four days. A total of 27 vapes and components were seized

These raids follow 

stiffer penalties imposed by the Government against vaping

since Sept 1.

Vape abusers now face increased fines of $500 for those under 18, and $700 for adults, up from $300 and $500 previously.

Those caught using Kpods will be sent for mandatory rehabilitation.

Kpod users caught a second time will undergo mandatory supervision for six months, which includes drug testing and rehabilitation.

Those caught a third time or more will be detained in a drug rehabilitation centre for treatment. They must also undergo drug testing and supervision for a year.

Those under the age of 16 face mandatory supervision and drug testing for a year.

The public can report vaping offences to the Tobacco Regulation Branch on 6684-2036 or 6684-2037 from 9am to 9pm daily, or online at 

www.go.gov.sg/reportvape

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