Man, 31, charged with trafficking of etomidate vaporiser pods

He tested positive for etomidate in an instant urine test and admitted that he had vaped etomidate in the morning before the accident. He was then remanded for a week.

Laboratory testing confirmed that the seized vaporiser pods contain etomidate.

“One vaporiser and one pod that was seized (were) for the suspect’s personal consumption. The rest were allegedly intended for supply,” said HSA.

Investigations into the vaporiser and etomidate trafficking offences are ongoing, and Tan is also assisting in the traffic police’s investigations under the Road Traffic Act 1961.

HSA said it takes a “serious view” of vaporiser and etomidate trafficking offences.

Under the Tobacco and Vaporisers Control Act 1993, etomidate and its analogues are listed as specified psychoactive substances.

Upon conviction, importers may be jailed for three to 20 years and receive five to 15 strokes of the cane, while suppliers may be jailed for two to 10 years and receive two to five strokes of the cane.