Singapore to cane and jail dealers of drug-laced vapes
The city state classified certain vape substances as controlled drugs, leading to fines, imprisonment, and possible deportation for dealers
Singapore banned the purchase, possession and use of vapes in 2018, making it a global forerunner in the drive against synthetic smoke culture. Pivoting to treat vape use as a drug issue, instead of just smoking, marks a major shift in how the problem is viewed by the country – where Class A drug offences carry the death penalty as the maximum punishment.
Those found using vapes will face fines of up to S$2,000 (US$1,555), while dealers of etomidate vapes are liable for a maximum 20-year imprisonment and caning, the ministries said. Until now, those found vaping in the city faced a S$500 fine. The city state also canes men convicted of vandalism, kidnapping and rape.
Foreigners with short-term passes found repeatedly in violation will be banned from re-entering Singapore upon departure, while long-term pass holders will be deported and banned from returning after a third violation, according to the two ministries.