Singapore has intensified enforcement against vaping on public transport following a nationwide crackdown led by various government agencies. The initiative, which began in August 2025, sees LTA officers, public transport operations, and station security empowered to conduct random bag checks, use X-ray and metal detectors, and patrol high-traffic stations and bus interchanges for illicit e-vaporiser possession or use. So far, more than 60 people have been caught in possession of vapes. This comes after PM Wong stated on August 17 that vaping would be treated as a drug issue in Singapore. Here’s the key details on the public transport vape enforcement in Singapore.
Detailed vaping penalties explained
Singapore introduced stricter penalties for vaping-related offences under the Tobacco (Control of Advertisement and Sales) Act and the Misuse of Drugs Act for substances such as etomidate. As a result, new operational powers allow frontline staff to confiscate vapes on the spot and issue fines on public transport. Additionally, the seized vapes are passed on to the Health Science Authority for further action.
Enforcement is integrated across MRT stations, bus interchanges, trains, and public paths—with more than 60 offenders apprehended in the first six weeks. Plus, officers with body cameras now document interactions and surveillance footage to provide to police for uncooperative offenders.
Offenders can face fines up to $2,000, mandatory rehabilitation for repeat violations. Meanwhile, possible deportation or revocation of permits for foreign nationals in serious cases. Here’s a quick overview of the public transport vape enforcement in Singapore:
- Vaping or possessing e-vaporisers on public transport is illegal. Officers are empowered to confiscate vapes and issue fines up to $2,000 immediately.
- More than 60 offenders have been caught since August 18 via random bag checks and security screenings at stations and interchanges.
- Recurring offenders may be referred for mandatory rehabilitation.
- Vapes containing harmful substances will be prosecuted under drug laws.
- Foreign nationals may face permit revocation or deportation for repeated or serious vaping offences.
The public are urged to dispose of vapes at designated bins before entering any public transport station or bus interchange to avoid penalties. Vaping remains illegal on public transport so you must comply with these laws.
The anti-vaping campaign is a collaboration between LTA, HSA, the National transport Vaping Committee, and public transport operators to crackdown and educate the public.
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