According to Channel News Asia, the two-hour operation was conducted by undercover officers from the Health Sciences Authority (HSA), dressed in casual attire to remain unnoticed. Several journalists joined the operation to document the crackdown in real-time.
HSA teams patrolled office areas and public spaces in small groups without fixed routes. Some offenders were found in designated smoking areas, while others were caught off guard in unexpected locations such as parking stairwells.
"Most of them were shocked when approached, but they cooperated when asked to hand over their vape devices and provide personal information," said one HSA officer.
One woman was seen covering her face when she noticed cameras documenting the raid.
A day earlier, on Tuesday (August 19, 2025), a similar operation at Haji Lane resulted in three arrests. In total, 18 offenders were caught over two consecutive days, all receiving on-the-spot fines.
The operation also seized 82 vape units and components, including 62 heatsticks.
Heavy Penalties for Vape Users and Distributors
In Singapore, the use, purchase, and possession of vapes are strictly prohibited. Violators may face fines of up to S$2,000 (approximately US$1,555).
Those involved in importing, distributing, or selling vapes face even harsher penalties. If vape pods are found to contain dangerous substances such as etomidate — a fast-acting anesthetic with high medical risk — offenders may be prosecuted under the Poisons Act, with a maximum penalty of two years in prison and fines of up to S$10,000.
Government Treats Vaping as a "Drug Issue"
Prime Minister Lawrence Wong, in his recent National Day Rally speech, emphasized the government’s firm stance on vaping.
"We will tighten enforcement, especially against the sale of vapes containing harmful substances," Wong stated.
The Singaporean government reiterated its commitment to protecting the public — particularly the younger generation — from the growing threat of vaping.