Singapore tightens immigration inspections to prevent tourists from bringing vapes

Singapore (ANTARA) - The Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) of Singapore is tightening immigration checks at the borders to prevent tourists from bringing e-vaporisers (vapes). The authority detected 42 cases of travellers found possessing vapes, as well as those who voluntarily discarded them, amid the intensified inspections at air, land, and sea checkpoints in the city-state. During the period of 24-27 March, the agency seized more than 240 vapes and related components, the ICA stated in a post on Sunday (29/3). About 52 percent of the cases involved short-term visitors, while 48 percent involved Singapore residents, including citizens, permanent residents, and long-term pass holders. Short-term visitors who repeat the violation will be barred from re-entering Singapore. Long-term pass holders who commit the violation for the third time may have their passes revoked, as well as be deported and prohibited from re-entering, the agency said. Singapore enforces a strict ban on the import, sale, distribution, possession, use, and purchase of electronic cigarettes, vapes, and other imitation tobacco products in an effort to protect public health.