ICA detects 50 vaping cases in four days; four foreign travellers found with over 5,200 vapes in luggage

The Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) detected 50 cases of travellers carrying vapes in just four days, seizing more than 5,476 vapes and related accessories. In one incident, four foreign travellers arriving at Changi Airport were found with 5,272 vapes and accessories concealed in their luggage. The case has been referred to the Health Sciences Authority (HSA).

In a Facebook post, ICA said checks at Singapore’s checkpoints from Monday (26 October) to Thursday (29 October) uncovered 50 cases of travellers possessing vapes.

About 68% of the cases involved short-term visitors. The remaining 32% involved Singapore residents, including citizens, permanent residents and long-term pass holders.

During Monday’s enforcement operation, officers identified four arriving foreign travellers at Changi Airport Terminal 4 for further checks. They found a total of 5,272 vapes and related accessories in the four travellers’ luggage.

All four have been referred to HSA and will face tougher penalties under the Tobacco and Vaporisers Control Act.

ICA also shared a video in its post showing officers conducting checks at various checkpoints.

The footage shows officers wearing gloves and carefully searching travellers’ backpacks and personal belongings. Officers are also seen questioning a man in an office.

The video also shows officers inspecting vehicles at land checkpoints, including opening car bonnets and checking vehicle interiors, as well as conducting checks on travellers crossing the border on motorcycles.

ICA said it would continue to support the government’s inter-agency efforts to combat vaping by stepping up enforcement checks at sea, land and air checkpoints to detect and deter the smuggling of vapes into Singapore.

The authority stressed that possessing, using or buying vapes in Singapore is illegal, and offenders will face tougher penalties under the Tobacco and Vaporisers Control Act.

Short-term visitors who reoffend will also be barred from re-entering Singapore. Long-term pass holders who commit a third offence may have their passes revoked, be deported and be barred from re-entry.

ICA reiterated that all foreigners visiting or living in Singapore must abide by the country’s laws. It will continue to safeguard Singapore’s borders against all forms of smuggling, including vapes.