HSA raids nightclub in Coleman Street as agency turns up heat in anti-vaping drive
Zaihan Mohamed Yusof for The Straits Times
An anti-vaping operation by the Health Sciences Authority (HSA) has allegedly uncovered an e-vaporiser distribution network led by the manager of a nightclub.
It follows a raid at a nightclub in Coleman Street on May 15.
In a release on June 13, HSA said the man is assisting the authority in investigations on the possession and sale of e-vaporisers.
The man worked at Club Slim, a nightclub in Excelsior Shopping Centre.
A spokesman for HSA said: "HSA officers caught the 45-year-old club manager, who admitted selling e-vaporisers to the club's staff members.
"HSA officers also uncovered additional evidence, allegedly linking him to an illegal distribution network after conducting a search of his vehicle and residence."
Officers also checked club patrons. Five individuals - three men and two women, aged between 22 and 40 - were found in possession of e-vaporisers and components.
They were issued with on-the-spot fines.
Said the HSA spokesman: "This raid was part of HSA's stepped-up enforcement and continuing efforts to combat the unauthorised sale and use of e-vaporisers at nightlife establishments."
From January 2024 to March 2025, the authority seized more than $41 million worth of e-vaporisers and components, and conducted 50 successful operations against large-scale e-vaporiser syndicates.
During the same period, the authority also prosecuted 60 persons aged 17 to 43 for selling e-vaporisers, including two key persons in an e-vaporiser syndicate case involving over $5 million worth of e-vaporisers.
Investigations are also ongoing in relation to a key figure of another syndicate, who was nabbed in October 2024. He is allegedly involved in a case of more than $6.5 million worth of e-vaporisers.
Since February 2018, vaping has been outlawed in Singapore. Possessing, using and buying e-vaporisers carries a maximum fine of $2,000.
Distributing, importing and selling prohibited tobacco products such as vapes and their components carries a heavier penalty - a fine of up to $10,000, or imprisonment of up to six months or both.
Smokers who need help with quitting can call the Health Promotion Board's toll-free Quitline at 1800-438-2000.
Members of the public who have information on the illegal import, distribution or sale of e-vaporisers can contact the Tobacco Regulation Branch at Tel: 6684 2036 or 6684 2037 during office hours.
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