SINGAPORE:

In a shocking turn of events, a young Singaporean man, who is just stepping into adulthood, found himself at the center of Singapore's largest vaping bust to date, valued at a staggering S$3.1 million (approximately US$2.3 million). The 21-year-old, Tan Teck Jin, faced serious charges after the authorities launched a crackdown on illegal electronic vaporisers.

While waiting to commence his National Service, Tan took a part-time job that seemed harmless enough: packing electronic vaporisers and components in a warehouse. Little did he know that this seemingly innocent endeavor would lead him into a legal maelstrom.

On October 7, Tan pleaded guilty to two charges of possession of imitation tobacco products and vaporisers intended for sale, in violation of the Tobacco (Control of Advertisements and Sale) Act. His lawyers argued for probation, emphasizing his young age, expressed remorse, and previous achievements, including accolades as a boxer.

The saga began in December 2022 when Tan sought a part-time job after graduating from Singapore Polytechnic, where he studied civil engineering and business. The intention was simple—to earn extra money for his personal expenses and to fund his boxing training, earning S$20 per hour for packing products from 9 am to 6 pm.

Tan's tasks included following orders communicated through a Telegram setup and physically packing the items for delivery. Each evening, the completed packages were handed off to a driver known only as "Cat," who coordinated deliveries to couriers. Reports indicate that Tan earned around S$3,000 for the month of January 2023 alone.

However, the façade of normalcy shattered on March 28, 2023, when police caught six individuals with e-cigarettes in a multi-storey car park. These products traced back to the Mandai warehouse, from which Tan was detained the following day as he reported for work. Authorities seized over 130,000 e-cigarette sets and 60,000 vape pods, alongside various electronic devices linked to the communications about the illegal sales.

In court, Tan's lawyers highlighted his naivety, arguing that he was oblivious to the gravity of his involvement, stating, "He simply clocked in and clocked out without giving thought to the consequences of his actions." They emphasized that he bore no managerial responsibilities and was merely fulfilling the packing role, presenting evidence that he had no direct connection to the sales process.

Despite his legal troubles, Tan has shown a commitment to reform. Currently, he serves in the Singapore Police Force as a special constable, demonstrating a strong commitment to integrity and public service. Remarkably, he has also excelled in boxing, recently clinching a title at the Singapore Boxing Federation's 2024 National Championship—an impressive feat for someone reflecting on such a tumultuous chapter in his life.

While Tan's future hangs in the balance, as sentencing has been deferred to November 5, the case serves as a potent reminder of the complexities surrounding youth employment and the legal landscape for tobacco products in Singapore. As the nation grapples with rising vape-related issues, this case may spark deeper conversations about regulation and the role of young individuals in the illicit economy.

Stay tuned for developments on this evolving story, as Tan’s journey from a part-time job to potential rehabilitation unfolds!