Singapore uniformed services ramp up enforcement against vaping
The Singapore Armed Forces (SAF), Singapore Police Force (SPF), and Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF) are strengthening their enforcement efforts against vaping.
This initiative comes after Prime Minister (PM) Lawrence Wong’s recent speech outlining Singapore’s strict approach towards e-vaporisers.
Source: Singapore Police Force on Facebook
On Wednesday (27 Aug), the Ministry of Defence (MINDEF) announced that the SAF has significantly increased security and routine enforcement checks across its camps and bases.
These enhanced measures include bag searches for contraband items, unauthorised materials, and urine testing, all aimed at deterring service personnel from possessing prohibited items.
Source: MINDEF on Facebook
MINDEF emphasised its “zero-tolerance policy” towards the use and possession of e-vaporisers, warning that personnel caught violating this policy will face strict disciplinary actions, including the possibility of detention.
In addition to these enforcement measures, MINDEF is also providing cessation counselling and resources to help service personnel quit vaping.
Source: MINDEF on Facebook
SPF & SCDF also conducting checks
Similarly, the SPF and SCDF are taking a strong stand against vaping.
On Sunday (24 Aug), both forces conducted “enhanced checks” at their training schools — the Home Team Academy and Civil Defence Academy — as trainees reported for stay-in training.
Source: SPF on Facebook
The SPF and SCDF have committed to referring offenders to the Health Sciences Authority, while also taking internal disciplinary action against personnel found with e-vaporisers.
Etomidate to be classified as a Class C drug
During the National Day Rally, PM Wong announced that Singapore will now treat vaping as a “drug issue”.
Highlighting the dangers of vapes, particularly those laced with etomidate such as Kpods, he confirmed that “much stiffer” penalties will be imposed for vape-related offenses.
Source: SPF on Facebook
In addition, Health Minister Ong Ye Kung recently revealed that, starting 1 Sept, etomidate will be reclassified as a Class C drug under the Misuse of Drugs Act.
Following this reclassification, individuals found abusing the substance could face up to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to S$20,000.
Also read: National Day Rally: Much stiffer penalties coming as vaping to be treated as drug issue right
National Day Rally: Much stiffer penalties coming as vaping to be treated as drug issue
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Featured image adapted from Singapore Police Force on Facebook and Ministry of Defence, Singapore (MINDEF) on Facebook.
