• Stricter penalties for vape users, including higher fines and mandatory rehabilitation.
• Etomidate, a drug in Kpods, will be classified as a Class C drug under the Misuse of Drugs Act.
• Caning and long prison sentences for suppliers of drug-laced vapes.
• Enhanced enforcement measures to clamp down on vaping in schools and public areas.
• Foreigners found with vapes may face deportation after repeat offenses.

From September 1, Singapore will impose increased penalties for users of drug-laced vapes, particularly those containing etomidate, which is now classified as a Class C controlled drug. Those caught vaping will face fines up to S$700, alongside mandatory rehabilitation for repeat offenses, according to channelnewsasia and scmp.

The government previously noted that etomidate, often found in Kpods, poses significant health risks, including hallucinations and potential organ failure. This sharp legislative shift reflects Singapore's stringent drug laws and aims to recalibrate the legal approach towards vaping, which has persistently gained popularity despite its ban since 2018. “Vapes have become delivery devices for very serious substance abuse,” said Health Minister Ong Ye Kung at a briefing BBC, thejakartapost.

Effective September 1, users of etomidate-infused vapes will face stiffer sanctions, including a S$500 fine for first-time offenders under 18 and S$700 for adults. Those found guilty of multiple offenses may undergo rehabilitation programs for up to six months, as further established in protocols announced by the Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Home Affairs, as reported by channelnewsasia and BBC.

Severe penalties are now applicable to suppliers, with increases to up to 20 years in prison and mandatory caning for those importing etomidate. The policy responds to the increasing illicit trade of Kpods, highlighted by recent data showing over 6,800 vape-related offenses in the first half of the year, according to thejakartapost and scmp.

To supplement the legislative changes, authorities have ramped up enforcement actions, instituting measures such as increased patrolling in schools and public spaces. The efforts include the introduction of nicotine testing in numerous schools and tighter scrutiny at border checkpoints to combat vaping trends fueled by products from neighboring countries, as detailed by BBC and channelnewsasia.

Moreover, foreigners found in violation will risk severe consequences, including deportation after repeated offenses. New regulations aim to ensure compliance not only from residents but also from tourists and expatriates, highlighting Singapore's dedication to maintaining strict public health laws against the backdrop of rising drug-related incidents, as reported by thejakartapost and scmp.