PUBLISHED ONJune 12, 2026 2:02 AMUPDATEDJune 16, 2026 3:10 AMBYSean LerTwo Singaporeans have been arrested at Woodlands Checkpoint for allegedly trying to smuggle e-vaporisers and related products into the country.
In a statement on its social media on Thursday (June 11), the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) said the 37-year-old man and 28-year-old female were passengers in a Malaysia-registered car that was driving into Singapore on May 30.
The vehicle was profiled for enhanced checks. ICA search and examination officers found more than 20 e-vaporisers and related components hidden amongst personal items.
Photographs provided by ICA show the contraband items wrapped in children's clothing and towels.
Both Singaporeans were arrested and the case has been referred to the Health Sciences Authority for further investigation.
Under the new Tobacco and Vaporisers Control Act — which took effect from May 1 — etomidate and its analogues are listed as specified psychoactive substances.
Importers now face jail time of between three to 20 years, and five to 15 strokes of the cane. They can also be fined up to $300,000, 30 times the previous amount.
Suppliers can face a sentence of two to 10 years' jail, and two to five strokes of the cane. The fine is up to $200,000, a 20-fold increase.
Meanwhile, those found possessing, using or purchasing e-vaporisers may be fined up to $10,000, while those who import them could face imprisonment of up to nine years and a fine of up to $300,000.
Need support around vaping or addiction?
To report vaping offences: Contact Health Sciences Authority’s Tobacco Regulation Branch at 6684-2036 / 6684-2037 (7am to 12am daily) or https://www.go.gov.sg/reportvape
To quit vaping: Contact Health Promotion Board’s I Quit programme at 1800-438-2000 (8am to 6pm, Monday to Friday) or https://www.healthhub.sg/programmes/iquit/e-cig/
For more addiction or substance abuse support:
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