Singapore Health Authority Defends Vape Search Without Warrant After Controversy

Nov.29.2024
Singapore Health Authority Defends Vape Search Without Warrant After Controversy
A man in Singapore sparked controversy after refusing to let authorities search his home for e-cigarettes without a warrant. The Health Sciences Authority (HSA) later emphasized that enforcement officers have the legal right to conduct such checks without a warrant.

According to a report in Lianhe Zaobao on November 28, a man in Singapore has attracted attention for refusing to allow law enforcement officers to search his home for e-cigarettes. The Health Sciences Authority stated that officers have the right to enter any premises for inspection without a search warrant.


This incident occurred on November 14th. A TikTok user with the username "rapperboya" began uploading six videos from November 15th onwards, documenting the visit of law enforcement officers from the health department to his home for a search. The videos show two plainclothes officers showing their credentials and requesting entry to search his residence, but the user firmly demanded to see a search warrant before refusing to open the door. Eventually, after the officers arrived on the scene and explained the situation, the user agreed to open the door and cooperate with the investigation.


On the 28th, a spokesperson for the Health Bureau responded to inquiries from the media by stating that under the Tobacco (Control of Advertisements and Sales) Act, Health Bureau personnel have the authority to enter any premises for inspection and seizure of goods without a search warrant, and may request suspects to show their identification. The spokesperson added that law enforcement officials usually do not wear uniforms in order to avoid attracting attention during enforcement actions, and all personnel carry authorization cards to prove their identity.


The Department of Health responded to the video incident by stating that they had received a report that a man was seen with an e-cigarette on TikTok, prompting them to investigate. The man initially refused to cooperate, but law enforcement sought assistance from the police to enter his home. No e-cigarette was found on the scene, but the man is still required to cooperate in the investigation of his behavior displaying e-cigarettes on social media.


According to relevant regulations, the maximum fine for possessing, using, or purchasing an e-cigarette can reach up to 2000 Singapore dollars.


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