This includes purchases made online and from overseas, said HSA, adding that offenders can be fined up to S$2,000 (US$1,554).

It is also illegal to import, distribute and sell vapes and their components. First-time offenders may be fined up to S$10,000, jailed for a maximum of six months, or both. The penalties double for repeat offenders.

Noting that etomidate will soon be classified as a Class C controlled drug under the Misuse of Drugs Act, HSA urged users of e-vaporisers, especially those laced with etomidate, to cease the habit. 

Offenders caught using etomidate-laced vapes will be subject to mandatory supervision and rehabilitation. Repeat offenders may be prosecuted and jailed for at least a year.

"More severe penalties apply to those selling, distributing or importing these devices, including imprisonment of up to 20 years and caning," said HSA.

Singapore has recently stepped up enforcement against vaping amid a growing problem here.


 

Prime Minister Lawrence Wong said in his National Day Rally on Aug 17 that authorities will .