More than 1,100 e-vaporisers were found on 17 Sep 2025 at Woodlands Checkpoint.
The Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) officers uncovered 1,169 vapes hidden inside a Malaysia-registered car, following a directed search for enhanced checks.
The vapes had been concealed in a modified compartment behind the car’s rear seat, reported CNA.
ICA officers discovered the stash after physically shifting the backseat forward, exposing the hidden goods. A video posted by the ICA showed packages of vapes sealed in plastic bags being retrieved from the compartment.
Immediate Action Taken
The driver of the vehicle was immediately referred to the Health Sciences Authority (HSA) for further investigation.
The ICA stated in its update that border security is central to Singapore’s vape enforcement strategy. The case is being handled by the HSA, which remains in charge of further action regarding smuggling and illegal possession.
Enforcement and Penalties
Authorities have ramped up enforcement since 1 Sep 2025, when Singapore introduced stiffer penalties for offences involving e-vaporisers.
Individuals younger than eighteen who are caught vaping may be fined S$500, while those eighteen and older face S$700 penalties.
The Health Sciences Authority (HSA) has reported a surge in vape seizures in recent months, with over S$41 million worth of vapes confiscated between Jan 2024 and Mar 2025, a near fivefold increase over the entire period from 2019 to the end of 2023.
Recent Busts and Broader Operations
This incident follows a string of major busts at Singapore checkpoints.
On 15 Sep 2025, just days before, officers intercepted a Malaysia-registered lorry at Tuas Checkpoint carrying more than 18,400 e-vaporisers and about 1,400 related components.
The vehicle was identified for enhanced checks using ICA’s automated risk assessment tools. ICA also stated that anti-vape operations have expanded into schools, nightspots, business districts, military camps and Home Team facilities.
Controlled Substances and Support
Etomidate-laced vape pods, referred to as Kpods, are subject to even harsher penalties due to their classification as a Class C controlled drug under Singapore’s Misuse of Drugs Act.
Anyone caught possessing, trafficking, or consuming these products faces possible rehabilitation, supervision or detention.
For individuals seeking to quit vaping, the Health Promotion Board’s QuitLine is available at 1800-438-2000. The Singapore government and its agencies have indicated that enforcement will continue at all land, air and sea checkpoints.
Here’s the REAL reason why everyone is hanging plushies on their bags, simplified for you:
