Foreign Worker Repatriated for E-Vaporiser Offense in Singapore

SINGAPORE: A Taiwanese national had his work permit revoked and was sent back to Taiwan after authorities discovered he was in possession of a pod for an e-vaporiser containing etomidate, commonly known as a Kpod. This incident took place on October 21, 2025, as reported by the Ministry of Health (MOH) and the Health Sciences Authority (HSA) on December 18.

This individual is one of six foreign nationals linked to etomidate abuse who have either been repatriated or are in the process of being sent back, as highlighted in a joint press statement. The MOH and HSA emphasized, “Foreigners living in Singapore must adhere to local laws and regulations; failure to do so can result in the revocation of work passes and restrictions on their ability to work in Singapore.”

Crackdown on E-Vaporiser Offenses

Since the implementation of an enhanced anti-vaping framework three months ago, authorities have taken action against 2,710 individuals for violations relating to e-vapourisers, with 257 found to be in possession of those containing etomidate.

Out of the 257 etomidate users, 162 have been placed in rehabilitation programmes at the Institute of Mental Health (IMH) and various social service agencies. Investigations for an additional 70 individuals are still ongoing.

While most offenders have complied with their rehabilitation requirements, three individuals have been charged in court for failing to attend their initial appointments. These defaulters could face prison sentences of up to two years. Another defaulter is currently under investigation, along with four others categorized as repeat offenders who also missed their rehabilitation sessions. This brings the total number of defaulters reported between September 1 and November 30 to eight.