Singapore to Introduce Prison Sentences of Up to One Year for E-Cigarette Violations
Punishments to Be Raised to the Level of Drug Offenses
Singapore, which is recognized as having the lowest crime rate and the highest level of public safety in the world, is renowned for its bold system of fines, technology-based surveillance, incorruptible police force, and community-centered policing structure. Notably, Singapore, which has implemented a city model that balances freedom within order, is now expected to introduce even harsher punishments for violations related to electronic cigarettes. On August 17 (local time), Bloomberg and other foreign media outlets reported that Singapore plans to impose prison sentences for smoking e-cigarettes containing harmful substances.
Electronic cigarettes are banned in Singapore, and health authorities have warned that about one-third of the confiscated e-cigarettes contain etomidate, an anesthetic agent. Generally, etomidate is a drug administered by doctors to induce sedation, but its misuse can cause hallucinations and permanent organ damage. Pixabay
On the same day, Singaporean Prime Minister Lawrence Wong stated in his speech, "Until now, we have treated e-cigarettes similarly to regular cigarettes and imposed only maximum fines, but that is no longer sufficient." He added, "We will now regard e-cigarettes as a drug issue and impose much stricter penalties." Prime Minister Wong further explained that those who sell e-cigarettes containing harmful substances will face harsher punishments, including imprisonment, and that rehabilitation programs will be provided for addicts.
Previously, Singaporean health authorities had warned that about one-third of confiscated e-cigarettes contained etomidate, an anesthetic agent. Generally, etomidate is a drug administered by doctors to induce sedation, but its misuse can lead to hallucinations and permanent organ damage.
Currently, Singapore is working to reclassify etomidate as an illegal narcotic under the Misuse of Drugs Act. Once this reclassification takes effect, users of e-cigarettes containing etomidate will face the same level of punishment as those caught consuming powerful drugs such as cocaine. Offenders may be required to participate in mandatory rehabilitation programs or, in the case of repeat offenses, may face a minimum of one year in prison. Prime Minister Wong pointed out, "Although e-cigarettes are banned in Singapore, people are still finding ways to smuggle them in and evade the law."
Singapore, the 'Fine City' Where Fines Are Scarier Than the Police
Singapore, nicknamed the "Fine City," is the country with the strictest law enforcement in the world. It is often joked that fines are scarier than the police, as detailed controls operate in every aspect of daily life. Drinking beverages or smoking in public places is strictly prohibited by law, and violators can face fines of up to several thousand dollars. For example, eating or drinking on public transportation results in a fine of 500 dollars (540,000 won), smoking in non-smoking areas incurs a 1,000 dollar (1,080,000 won) fine, and bringing flammable materials is punishable by a 5,000 dollar (5,400,000 won) fine. Jaywalking is fined 1,000 dollars, while littering can result in a 2,000 dollar fine or up to three months in prison. Walking a dog without a leash or muzzle results in a 5,000 dollar (5,400,000 won) fine for the first offense, and a staggering 10,000 dollar (10,800,000 won) fine for repeat offenses.
Singapore, nicknamed "Fine City," is the country with the strictest law enforcement in the world. It is often joked that fines are scarier than the police, as detailed controls operate in every aspect of daily life. Pixabay
These strict sanctions go beyond maintaining public order and regulate nearly every aspect of citizens' daily lives. For example, in childcare centers, each child is equipped with an electronic tag that automatically records their arrival and departure times and locations. Inside classrooms, there is one CCTV camera for every five children to prevent abuse, discrimination, or corporal punishment in advance. Furthermore, to maintain urban stability, the Singapore Police operate a variety of special units. These include SWAT teams for counterterrorism and emergencies, mobile squads, and female combat police, all of whom are responsible for city patrols and rapid response. In particular, a special drone unit is dedicated to detecting illegal drones and neutralizing them with drone jammers.
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