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18 Persons Nabbed and 82 Vapes Seized in HSA Ops in Raffles Place and Haji Lane

The Straits Times

|

August 21, 2025

Most caught by surprise; despite ban, number of offenders and devices seized continue to rise

- Zaihan Mohamed Yusof

18 Persons Nabbed and 82 Vapes Seized in HSA Ops in Raffles Place and Haji Lane

The Health Sciences Authority (HSA) has seized 82 e-vaporisers, including 62 heatsticks, in anti-vaping operations conducted in Raffles Place and Haji Lane.

The two-day sting, which started on Aug 19, saw 18 persons between the ages of 24 and 48 nabbed for vape-related offences.

Those caught vaping will face a maximum fine of $2,000.

The sting is the latest in Singapore as the authorities turn up the pressure on vapers.

The Straits Times had tagged along with one of the HSA teams on patrol.

Most of the vapers were caught by surprise when the HSA officers identified themselves to the offenders.

One offender even thought that vaping discreetly at an outdoor section of an eatery at Boat Quay would shield him from unwanted attention.

He was caught when the white aerosol exhaled from his vape gave him away.

Despite being banned since 2018, the number of vapes seized and those caught vaping has continued to rise.

MEER VERHALEN VAN The Straits Times

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