Man arrested after cargo container found with over 9,200 vape pods at Pasir Panjang Terminal
Officers from the Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) found more than 9,200 e-vaporiser pods in an inbound cargo container at Pasir Panjang Terminal on Sept 17.
The container was targeted for enhanced checks at the Pasir Panjang Scanning Station. The pods were concealed in a consignment declared as “power bank”.
The case was referred to the Health Sciences Authority (HSA) for further investigations.
A joint operation by HSA and the Criminal Investigation Department on Sept 18 established the identity of a 25-year-old Singaporean man involved with the consignment.
He was arrested for his suspected involvement in the importation of the vape pods.
The offence carries a fine of up to $10,000, imprisonment of up to six months or both for first-time offenders. For subsequent offences, the penalty is a fine of up to $20,000, imprisonment of up to 12 months or both.
The man was also found to be in possession of another 85 vapes and related components. The total estimated street value of the seized items is more than $51,000.
Investigations are ongoing.
Under the enhanced enforcement framework that came into force on Sept 1, individuals found possessing, using, or purchasing e-vaporisers now face higher penalties and recalcitrant users will be required to undergo rehabilitation.
Those who do not complete the rehabilitation programme will be prosecuted.
Offenders caught using e-vaporisers for the third time and more will be prosecuted in
court and be liable for a fine of up to $2,000.
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