More than 2,400 people caught vaping in second quarter of 2026

Singapore authorities caught and penalised over 2,400 individuals for vaping-related offenses in the second quarter of 2026. Out of these, 457 were caught with etomidate vaporisers. The Ministry of Health (MOH) and Health Sciences Authority (HSA) announced the figures on August 11. Nine people faced charges for allegedly importing or supplying etomidate.

The month of June saw an average of 809 cases compared to 1,219 cases between June and August 2025, a 30% decrease following stricter measures on vaping implemented on September 1. Among those caught, 264 were enrolled in rehabilitation programs, bringing the total number of people in such programs to 787 since September. First-time and repeat offenders of etomidate vaporisers are now required to undergo mandatory rehabilitation, with non-compliance leading to court charges.

Of the 245 offenders who completed the program, one was a 15-year-old boy who had previously vaped twice. He successfully completed a three-month program and showed improvement, according to his father. However, 288 people missed their rehabilitation appointments or failed to complete the program, with 41 charged and serving their sentences.

Another 18 individuals were admitted to the Drug Rehabilitation Centre for repeat etomidate offenses, with 15 released and under supervision. The authorities seized over S$880,000 worth of etomidate vaporiser pods and seized over 3,900 vaporisers and related components from 14 people caught selling or importing them. The authorities maintain a strict stance against the import of prohibited tobacco products, with penalties including fines and possible prosecution.

Foreigners convicted face deportation after serving their sentences and are barred from re-entering Singapore.