15-year-old among five caught vaping in Khatib, Yishun and Punggol after public tip-offs

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

Aged between 15 and 37 years old, they were caught vaping during joint enforcement operations from Oct 8 to 10 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 hotspots 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 21 years old 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 in Tampines and the Central Business District.

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 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