- Two men were identified for vaping and smoking in a Sentosa cable car by the Health Sciences Authority (HSA).
- Both are 24 years old and are assisting HSA in further investigations.
- Offenders can be fined up to $20,000 and jailed for up to 12 months for subsequent offences.
“This is a serious issue”. The recent incident of two men vaping and smoking in a Sentosa cable car has caused a stir among Singaporeans and has been the topic of much discussion.
The Health Sciences Authority (HSA) has identified the two men, both 24 years old and confiscated 11 e-vaporisers and 16 related components from their residences.
This incident has prompted HSA to take a severe view of vaping and smoking and stern action against those who flout the law.
What You Need to Know about the HSA Investigations
The HSA was alerted to a TikTok video on 19 March 2023, which showed a man taking several puffs from an e-vaporiser while his friend taking the video smoked a cigarette.
Both men were found to be 24 years old, and they are currently assisting HSA in further investigations.
The purchase, possession and use of e-vaporisers are prohibited in Singapore under the Tobacco (Control of Advertisements and Sale) Act. Offenders may be fined up to $2,000.
Anyone selling or importing these products may be fined up to $10,000 or imprisoned for up to 6 months, or both, for the first offence.
And up to $20,000 or 12 months, or both for consecutive violations.
The HSA is determined to take stern action to deter such activities and has urged members of the public who have information on illegal activities involving e-vaporisers or under-aged smokers to contact the Tobacco Regulation Branch at Tel: 6684 2036 or 6684 2037 during office hours.
The Dangers of Vaping and Smoking
Smoking causes cancer, heart disease, and most preventable deaths globally.
Vaping has become fashionable, but its long-term health repercussions are unknown.
It is known, however, that e-cigarettes contain nicotine and other toxic substances, and that nicotine is highly addictive.
You must be aware of the dangers of it and take precautions to protect your health.
The Health Promotion Board (HPB) has a toll-free Quitline (1800-438-2000) for smokers who need help quitting.
In addition, information about the harms of e-vaporisers and prohibited tobacco products in Singapore can be found on the HSA website.
Conclusion
The HSA’s investigation into two men smoking and vaping in a Sentosa cable car reminds Singaporeans of the dangers of smoking and vaping.
Those caught flouting the law will face stiff penalties, and HSA will continue to work with relevant agencies to deter such activities and to take stern enforcement actions against offenders.
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