Over 2,800 e-vaporisers found hidden in car at Tuas Checkpoint

A 55-year-old man was caught at Tuas Checkpoint with over 2,800 e-vaporisers and components concealed in a car, surpassing earlier major seizures. The case has been referred to the Health Sciences Authority for further investigation.

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AI-Generated Summary
  • ICA officers seized over 2,800 e-vaporisers and components at Tuas Checkpoint.
  • The paraphernalia was hidden in the boot and under rear seats of a Singapore-registered vehicle.
  • Singapore has increased penalties for possession or use of vapes as of 1 September 2025.

Authorities seized more than 2,800 e-vaporisers and associated components at Tuas Checkpoint on 17 November 2025. The items were discovered hidden in various compartments of a Singapore-registered car driven by a 55-year-old man.

According to a Facebook post by the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) on 1 December, the contraband was concealed in the boot and under the rear seats. The vehicle was directed for enhanced checks by ICA officers during a routine inspection.

Photos shared by ICA show the scale and manner of the concealment, with large quantities of e-vaporisers and parts packed in black bags and compartments.

The case has since been referred to the Health Sciences Authority (HSA) for further investigation. No further details about the man’s identity or potential charges have been released as of yet.

This seizure marks one of the largest in recent months, exceeding the more than 1,500 e-vaporisers and related paraphernalia confiscated across Singapore’s checkpoints in the first four days of September 2025.

Singapore maintains a strict ban on e-vaporisers and related products under the Tobacco (Control of Advertisements and Sale) Act. The country has intensified its approach to vaping in recent years, viewing it increasingly as a drug-related issue.

As of 1 September 2025, individuals found in possession of, or using, vapes face higher financial penalties. Those under the age of 18 face fines of S$500, up from the previous S$300. Adults face increased fines of S$700, up from S$500.

The crackdown also extends to the use of vape devices laced with synthetic drugs such as etomidate or ketamine.

These devices, often referred to as "Kpods", may lead to compulsory rehabilitation, supervised release programmes, or detention under Singapore’s drug laws.

Authorities continue to remind the public that all forms of vaping are prohibited in Singapore, regardless of whether the devices contain nicotine or not.

For individuals seeking support to quit vaping, the Health Promotion Board offers assistance through its QuitLine service at 1800-438-2000.

The ICA reiterated its commitment to safeguarding Singapore’s borders and preventing the entry of prohibited items, particularly those that pose public health and safety risks.



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