Merc driver charged with trafficking Kpods after Yishun accident injuring 2 elderly pedestrians
A 36-year-old man was charged in court on Oct 2 for the trafficking and consumption of etomidate vape pods.
Heng Yong Qin was also charged with possessing a e-vaporiser for sale.
He was arrested after being involved in a traffic accident outside Khatib Polyclinic in Yishun on Sept 30.
A Stomper shared photos taken outside the polyclinic showing a black and white Mercedes on the pavement.
In response to a Stomp query, the police said they were alerted to the accident along 622 Yishun Ring Road at about 10.20am.
Heng and two female pedestrians, aged 67 and 81, were conscious when taken to the hospital.
One e-vaporiser and 33 pods found in his car were seized by the Health Sciences Authority (HSA).
Heng was at a carpark near the polyclinic when he allegedly trafficked the 33 pods shortly before 1pm on the same day, reported The Straits Times.
Importers, sellers and distributors of etomidate e-vaporisers now face stiffer penalties. This includes three to 20 years' imprisonment and five to 15 strokes of the cane for importers, and two to 10 years' imprisonment and two to five strokes of the cane for sellers and distributors.
HSA's investigations are ongoing.
Heng is also being investigated by the police for driving under the influence of intoxicating substances.
First-time offenders face a maximum of one year in jail, a fine of up to $10,000 or both, plus a driving ban of at least two years.
Repeat offenders face even harsher penalties, including up to two years in jail, fines of $5,000 to $20,000, and a mandatory driving ban of at least five years.
Heng was under a remission order when he was arrested and was supposed to keep out of trouble from June 17, 2025, to June 16, 2027. He is accused of breaching the order and could face an enhanced sentence should he be convicted of his latest charges.
The case was adjourned to Oct 29.
