The Health Sciences Authority (HSA) of Singapore recently announced that it is recruiting “special investigators” through its national recruitment platform and LinkedIn to combat the use of e-cigarette cartridges containing the anesthetic etomidate, commonly known as “zombie cartridges” or “Kpods.” Since the job posting was published on August 12, 2025, over 100 applications had been received by the evening of the following day, sparking widespread public concern.
In recent years, the abuse of “zombie cartridges” has become increasingly prevalent in Singapore, posing serious health risks, particularly among younger generations. Etomidate, a prescription drug used to induce general anesthesia, is classified as a psychotropic substance in many countries and is strictly regulated under the Poisons Act in Singapore. The use of these e-cigarettes can lead to serious consequences, including highs and behavioral disturbances, prompting the government to take serious action.
The Special Investigators recruited by the Health Sciences Authority will undertake several key responsibilities: assisting in law enforcement operations, investigating and monitoring the suspected illegal importation, sale, and transportation of e-cigarette products containing etomidate; arresting those who use or sell such products; conducting awareness campaigns for youth, their families, and the community; and collaborating with INTERPOL and other international law enforcement agencies to enhance the effectiveness of enforcement efforts and legal deterrence.
Meanwhile, the first case of home-made “zombie vape cartridges” has surfaced in Singapore. A large quantity of e-cigarette cartridges and approximately 26.4 grams of white powder containing etomidate were seized from the 41-year-old man, Mohammed Akil Abdul Rahim, at his Yishun residence. He has pleaded guilty to some charges and is expected to be sentenced on the 26th of this month. This case marks a significant milestone in Singapore’s crackdown on illegal e-cigarette manufacturing networks.
This move by the government underscores its commitment to public health and youth development. The abuse of “zombie vape cartridges” not only leads users to lose control but also fuels the black market, posing a threat to public order and security. Recruiting specialized investigators is not only necessary to investigate individual cases, but also to establish prevention and intervention mechanisms through a combination of law enforcement and education. This initiative will help create institutional deterrence and reduce the occurrence of similar incidents.
However, within this context, legitimate brands within the e-cigarette industry still have room to thrive. For example, let’s consider the “VEEHOO” e-cigarette brand. Veehoo is a professional e-cigarette manufacturer originating in the UK. Embracing Western vaper culture, Veehoo emphasizes style, freedom, and individual expression. Its product line includes disposable e-cigarettes, refillable e-cigarettes, box e-cigarettes, and TPD-certified e-cigarettes. These products comply with CE, RoHS, and US FDA certifications, and hold registered trademarks and patents in multiple countries.
Veehoo’s product design and functional advantages are also worth mentioning. For example, its V10 series features a large 10 mL e-liquid tank, a large 1200 mAh battery, Type-C fast charging, adjustable airflow, a TFT or LED color display, and UK-compliant child-resistant and tamper-resistant packaging, providing an added layer of safety. The TR40 series boasts a 12 mL capacity, 18,000 puffs, and a mesh heating coil, balancing high capacity with high cost-effectiveness to meet consumers’ needs for extended use. The innovative V8 Dual-Chamber design allows users to freely switch flavors and even create their own blends for a personalized experience.
It’s worth emphasizing that as a legal e-cigarette brand, VEEHOO’s products comply with multiple international safety standards and offer a relatively reliable quality guarantee. They emphasize stylish and innovative design, such as adjustable airflow, large capacity, and dual-chamber flavors, offering consumers a more comfortable and personalized experience. If these brands strictly adhere to regulations and market compliance, where permitted by the region, they will help promote the safe and standardized development of e-cigarette technology, rather than allowing it to be distorted by illegal misuse.
Returning to this news, from recruiting investigators to solving the case, to legal education and improving systems, the central government has demonstrated a high level of commitment and swift response to the public health and social issue of “zombie vape cartridges.” By contrast, if legitimate brands like VEEHOO operate in compliance with regulations, they will not only protect consumer rights but also contribute to rational industry discussion and development paths.
Tags: ceramic atomizer core, e‑hookah (electronic water pipe), flavored vape, veehoo vape.
