SINGAPORE: A man driving from Malaysia to Singapore was caught at the Woodlands Checkpoint with over 3,000 etomidate-laced vape pods, valued at more than S$205,000.
Neo Yeow Siang also had in his possession more than 5,000 heatsticks – tobacco products that are heated and not burned.
The heatsticks had a total street value of $25,000.
On Feb 25, the 45-year-old Singaporean was sentenced to a year and eight months’ jail, and a fine of $4,000.
He had pleaded guilty to one count each of importing the heatsticks and being in possession of the etomidate-laced vape pods.
Health Sciences Authority (HSA) prosecutor Nur Afiqah told the court that etomidate is a hypnotic that has only been approved as an intravenous injection for the induction of general anaesthesia.
It is not approved for use via inhalation.
The prosecutor added: “Based on case reports of patients using etomidate-infused e-cigarettes, etomidate inhalation can induce psychiatric symptoms, such as depressed mood, mood swings, and increased impulsivity, leading to suicide attempts and aggression.”
Investigations revealed that in February 2024, Neo’s vehicle needed repairs, and he was introduced to one “Nick” who owned a workshop called NK Motorsports in Johor Bahru.
Nick then offered him a job to smuggle vape pods into Singapore.
Neo accepted the offer as he needed money to clear his debts, which included repair costs owed to Nick.
He was promised between RM900 (S$294) and RM1,500 for each completed delivery.
