Five charged for Kpod offences, 65 other cases involving etomidate-laced vapes being investigated
The Health Sciences Authority (HSA) is also investigating about 65 other cases involving the possession, sale or importation of such vapes, HSA and the Ministry of Health (MOH) said in a joint media release.
Under the Poisons Act, those found guilty of possessing, importing or selling pods containing etomidate face a jail term of up to two years and a fine of up to S$10,000.
Vaping is illegal in Singapore, and authorities have been cracking down on a rising number of cases.
They have also been trying to deal with a trend of people using Kpods, which contain vape juice mixed with etomidate.
Etomidate is a short-acting agent administered intravenously to induce sedation for patients undergoing surgery. It can also be used in certain medical processes such as intubation.
However, when used outside a controlled medical environment, etomidate can be dangerous.
MOH and HSA said 18 other people are facing charges involving the sale, advertising or import of e-vaporisers.
Another 100 are under investigation for similar offences under the Tobacco (Control of Advertisements and Sale) Act (TCASA).
The authorities noted that etomidate will soon be classified as a Class C controlled drug under the Misuse of Drugs Act.
Offenders caught using etomidate-laced e-vaporisers will be subject to mandatory supervision and rehabilitation. Repeat offenders may be prosecuted and face a jail term of at least a year.
"More severe penalties apply to those selling, distributing or importing these devices, including imprisonment of up to 20 years and caning,' said MOH and HSA.
'Users of e-vaporisers, particularly those consuming etomidate, are strongly urged to cease consumption immediately.'
The possession, use or purchase of e-vaporisers carries a maximum fine of S$2,000 under TCASA. It is also an offence to import, distribute, sell or offer for sale e-vaporisers and their components.
Those convicted of an offence face a fine of up to S$10,000, or a jail term of up to six months or both for the first offence. Repeat offenders face tougher penalties.
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