Authorities in Singapore uncovered a major smuggling operation when they discovered thousands of vape pods hidden inside a cargo container, according to The Straits Times.
What's happening?
Officers from the Singapore Police Force, Immigration and Checkpoints Authority, and Health Sciences Authority found over 9,200 vape pods concealed in an inbound cargo container.
The discovery occurred on Sept. 17 at the Pasir Panjang Scanning Station.
According to the article, the shipment was falsely declared as containing power banks for charging devices.
Authorities tracked down a 25-year-old Singaporean man allegedly connected to the illegal consignment and arrested him the following day.
During the arrest, officers reportedly discovered an additional 85 vape pods and other vaping paraphernalia in his possession.
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The total street value of the seized items exceeded $51,000.
Why is vape smuggling concerning?
The vaping industry has the potential to pose serious threats to public health and the environment.
Vaping products have been linked to negative health outcomes, including respiratory issues and nicotine addiction in children and adolescents, whose lungs and brains are still developing.
Disposable vapes also cause vast environmental damage.
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Throw them away 🗑️ These products significantly contribute to the rise of single-use plastics, generating toxic e-waste that often ends up in landfills.
Improperly discarded lithium batteries from vapes pose fire hazards and leach harmful chemicals into soil and water systems.
Each disposable vape contains materials that could persist in the environment for decades while continuing to release toxic substances.
What's being done about vape smuggling?
Singapore has implemented stricter penalties to combat the vaping crisis, per the article.
Since the beginning of September, first-time offenders aged 18 and above have faced fines of $700 for possessing vapes under the country's new regulations. Second-time offenders must undergo mandatory rehabilitation, and third-time offenders can be fined up to $2,000.
Meanwhile, those convicted of importing, distributing, or selling vapes face even steeper consequences: up to $10,000, a maximum of six months in jail, or both for a first offense. Subsequent convictions can result in a $20,000 fine and up to one year in jail.
Every little bit helps in keeping dangerous plastics out of the environment.
You can do your part by disposing of electronic waste at a designated e-waste collection center instead of throwing devices in the trash and by replacing everyday items with plastic-free alternatives.
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