For more than three years, a neatly organised local syndicate managed the delivery of electronic vaporisers sourced from Malaysia, operating through chat groups and warehouses while concealing the leader’s identity across the border. One member has now pleaded guilty, revealing details about how the group worked.
- Syndicate managed daily deliveries of 105–210 vape orders
- Warehouses in Lentor and Canberra stored over 57,000 vapes
- Member earned up to S$4,000 monthly by delivering vapes locally
What happened
From mid-2022 until their arrest in October 2025, an organised group orchestrated the importation and distribution of vapes from Malaysia into Singapore. They operated through a three-tier system: local syndicate leaders, local distributors, and area distributors who handled the actual deliveries. The group rented warehouses in Canberra and Lentor to store the products and used chat platforms like Telegram and WhatsApp to manage orders and logistics, with operations cleverly segmented by postal codes.
During a police operation, authorities seized over 57,000 vape products from these storage locations. One delivery member, Roy Tan Jun Jie, pleaded guilty to participating in the syndicate and possessing imitation tobacco products for sale. Tan worked as an area distributor, delivering orders in specific postal zones and earning commissions. The syndicate’s leader, known only as 'Nobody', coordinated remotely from Malaysia, directing the flow of goods and finances.
Why it feels good
This case sheds light on the active efforts of local authorities to dismantle illegal vape networks that could otherwise operate unnoticed and pose health risks to the community. By uncovering the syndicate’s structure and seizing extensive shipments, enforcement agencies demonstrate their commitment to public health and legal standards.
Importantly, the exposure and prosecution of members like Tan emphasize the consequences of involvement in illegal activities, encouraging greater awareness and discouraging participation in the illicit trade. The outcome promotes safer communities and supports legitimate business practices while protecting youth and vulnerable groups from unregulated vape products.
What to enjoy or watch next
Keep an eye out for updates on ongoing prosecutions related to this syndicate and other initiatives aimed at curbing illegal vape sales and distribution in Singapore. Public health authorities and law enforcement continue to monitor emerging trends to prevent illicit operations from resurfacing.
For those interested in learning more about the risks of unregulated vape products, local government websites and health organizations provide useful resources on vaping awareness and cessation support. Staying informed helps communities make healthier choices and supports efforts to maintain safe environments.