Under the new framework, first-time offenders who are caught possessing or using vapes currently face a fine of S$500 (US$389) if under 18, while those 18 and above will be fined S$700.
A second offence will require the individual to undergo a three-month rehabilitation programme, consisting of six sessions. Failure to complete the programme will result in prosecution. For a third or subsequent offence, the offender will be prosecuted in court under the Tobacco (Control of Advertisements and Sale) Act (TCASA) and may be fined up to S$2,000.
Etomidate, an anaesthetic agent detected in drug-laced vapes known as Kpods, has also been designated a Class C drug under the Misuse of Drugs Act. First-time Kpod offenders will face the same increased fines as vape users but must also attend a rehabilitation programme lasting up to six months, while second-time abusers will be arrested and investigated under the Misuse of Drugs Act, with their statement taken and urine tested.
Responding to CNA queries, ICA said on Friday that those who voluntarily declared and disposed their vapes were not penalised.
“Short-term visitors who re-offend will be banned from re-entering Singapore,” the authority added.
“Long-term pass holders who re-offend may also have their passes revoked on a third offence, and be deported and banned from re-entering Singapore.”
ICA stressed that border security is central to its strategy against e-vaporisers and reaffirmed its commitment to keeping Singapore’s borders safe.
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A second offence will require the individual to undergo a three-month rehabilitation programme, consisting of six sessions. Failure to complete the programme will result in prosecution. For a third or subsequent offence, the offender will be prosecuted in court under the Tobacco (Control of Advertisements and Sale) Act (TCASA) and may be fined up to S$2,000.
Etomidate, an anaesthetic agent detected in drug-laced vapes known as Kpods, has also been designated a Class C drug under the Misuse of Drugs Act. First-time Kpod offenders will face the same increased fines as vape users but must also attend a rehabilitation programme lasting up to six months, while second-time abusers will be arrested and investigated under the Misuse of Drugs Act, with their statement taken and urine tested.
Responding to CNA queries, ICA said on Friday that those who voluntarily declared and disposed their vapes were not penalised.
“Short-term visitors who re-offend will be banned from re-entering Singapore,” the authority added.
“Long-term pass holders who re-offend may also have their passes revoked on a third offence, and be deported and banned from re-entering Singapore.”
ICA stressed that border security is central to its strategy against e-vaporisers and reaffirmed its commitment to keeping Singapore’s borders safe.
Continue reading...