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

Singapore's crackdown on vaping continues, with authorities penalizing 2,428 individuals for possession and use of vaporizers in the second quarter of 2026. The period from April 1 to June 30 saw a significant number of these offenses involving etomidate, a substance increasingly found in illicit vapes, with 457 offenders caught for its use.

While the total number of cases remains high, there are signs of progress. The average of 809 cases per month during this quarter represents a roughly 30% decrease compared to the monthly average before stricter measures took effect on September 1, 2025. This suggests the enhanced framework is having a deterrent effect.

The stricter measures include mandatory rehabilitation for first-time etomidate vaporiser offenders and repeat vape offenders. Since September 1, 2025, 787 individuals have been placed on rehabilitation programs. Of these, 245 have successfully completed their programs, including a 15-year-old who showed positive behavioral changes after a three-month course.

However, non-compliance remains an issue, with 288 individuals defaulting on their rehabilitation programs. Of these defaulters, 41 have been charged and are serving sentences, while 152 are undergoing court proceedings. Authorities are also targeting the supply chain, charging nine individuals for alleged import or supply of etomidate vaporizers, including six suspected members of a transnational syndicate. Over S$880,000 worth of etomidate pods have been seized from this group alone.