Minister for Home Affairs and Coordinating Minister for National Security, K. Shanmugam, announced that the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) will second officers to the Health Sciences Authority (HSA) to support efforts against etomidate abuse, particularly in relation to Kpod devices (vapes laced with etomidate). This measure accompanies an interim push to consider listing etomidate under the Misuse of Drugs Act (MDA) to strengthen enforcement and public-health responses.
Listing etomidate under the Misuse of Drugs Act — Interim measure
Etomidate is presently regulated under the Poisons Act. As an interim enforcement step, authorities have indicated plans to reclassify etomidate as a Class C substance under the Misuse of Drugs Act. Reclassification under the MDA enables significantly stricter criminal sanctions and supports more robust supervision and rehabilitation options for those caught in the drug‑use cycle.
MHA to support HSA’s crackdown on Kpod abusers and help in treatment of offenders
The MHA will second staff to assist HSA with supervision, evidence handling, and the coordination of treatment pathways for offenders. Minister Shanmugam emphasised this is part of a broader, inter‑agency approach that includes the Ministry of Health (MOH) and community partners. The initiative aims to combine enforcement with rehabilitation and public education to reduce harm and prevent recurrence.
Public-health and enforcement strategy
- HSA has introduced voluntary surrender schemes ("Bin the Vape") to allow individuals to dispose of illicit e‑vaporisers without fear of prosecution.
- MHA’s secondment will facilitate investigations and support treatment referrals for identified users.
- MOH is reviewing legislative options to address emerging substances comprehensively.
Frequently asked questions
Q: What does listing etomidate under the Misuse of Drugs Act mean?
A: Listing etomidate under the MDA will treat it as a controlled Class C drug, enabling tougher penalties for supply and use, and allowing structured rehabilitation for offenders.
Q: Will law‑abiding patients be affected?
A: Legitimate medical use of etomidate is subject to clinical controls; authorities typically provide exemptions or regulatory pathways for licensed medical practice.
Q: How can law enforcement and agencies collaborate?
A: The MHA‑HSA secondment enables resource sharing for evidence handling, treatment referrals, and coordinated public‑education campaigns.
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