Exploitation of Youths Involved in Vaping Offences as Distributors or Intermediaries and Rehabilitation Pathways for First-time Youth Offenders

Mr Jackson Lam asked the Coordinating Minister for Social Policies and Minister for Health (a) whether youths involved in vaping offences are increasingly being exploited as distributors or intermediaries; (b) how such cases are assessed to distinguish users from organised sellers; and (c) what diversion or rehabilitation pathways exist for such first-time youth offenders.

We are not seeing an increasing trend of youth being involved in the supply or sale of e-vaporisers.

We impose stiff penalties against supply and sale of e-vaporisers to ensure sufficient deterrence and protect Singaporeans from the harms of e-vaporisers. In the course of investigations, the Health Sciences Authority takes into account several factors, including the quantity and types of illicit products involved, as well as evidence of intent to sell or supply to others, to determine the nature of the offence.

Factors, such as their age or number of past offences, will also be taken into consideration by the Courts when determining the appropriate sentences.