Malaysian Vape Pod Importer Jailed for 18 Months

Syed Mohd Ridzuan Bin Syed Yahya (the accused), a 31-year-old Malaysian male, was sentenced today, 5 November 2026, to 18 months’ imprisonment for the importation of vaporiser pods under the Tobacco and Vaporisers Control Act 1993 (TVCA). This is the highest sentence imposed to date for the importation of non-etomidate vaporiser pods under the TVCA.  

2 On the morning of 10 July 2026, Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) officers directed the accused’s vehicle for enhanced checks at Woodlands Checkpoint. ICA officers uncovered boxes of vaporiser pods concealed in the interior side panels of the vehicle. The case was referred to the Health Sciences Authority (HSA) for further investigation. HSA seized the vehicle, and more than 4,300 pods worth an estimated $22,000. Another charge involving the possession of one vaporiser was also taken into consideration for sentencing. Please refer to the Annex for the photographs of the seized items. 

3 HSA’s investigations found that the accused had applied for jobs through a Facebook page in early June 2026. An unidentified male with a Malaysian phone number responded and offered him a job. The accused travelled from Malacca to Johor Bahru to meet this individual, whom he referred to as "Boss". “Boss” registered a vehicle in the accused's name and arranged for him to reside in a rented house in Johor Bahru. He also procured a Malaysian SIM card for the accused, solely for communications relating to the pod deliveries. The accused was then tasked to transport pods through the trip into Singapore, with the vehicle loaded with pods the night before the trip.   

4       HSA takes a serious view of offences involving the importation and supply of vaporisers and their components. Under the TVCA, importers of vaporisers face mandatory imprisonment of up to nine years, and a fine of up to $300,000; while suppliers face mandatory imprisonment of up to six years, and a fine of up to $200,000. In addition, under the TVCA’s enhanced enforcement measures, vehicles used in the commission such offences will be seized and are liable to forfeiture. Upon forfeiture, offenders will lose all claims to their vehicles. 

HEALTH SCIENCES AUTHORITY  
SINGAPORE  
5 NOVEMBER 2026 

ANNEX

Vaporiser and pods seized

One box of vaporiser pods

Vehicle used to smuggle vaporiser pods

All photos are to be credited to the Health Sciences Authority, Singapore.

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