Man Jailed for Surveillance and Drug Offenses Related to Illegal Vape Seizure

A Malaysian man was hired by an importer of illegal electronic vaporizers to surveil a warehouse in Singapore. The warehouse held over S$6 million worth of seized vapes and components that had been confiscated by the Health Sciences Authority (HSA). The purpose of the surveillance was to identify security measures, potentially enabling the theft of the seized goods.

During the surveillance, the man was spotted by HSA officers who questioned his presence. Following this, officers discovered drugs in his vehicle. After being released on bail, the man contacted his hirer and subsequently fled Singapore, hiding in a lorry to return to Malaysia. However, he was later apprehended and extradited back to Singapore to face charges.

The man, Chee Wai Yuen, aged 36, was sentenced to jail for one year, one month, and six weeks. He pleaded guilty to multiple charges, including drug offenses, obstructing justice through surveillance, and an immigration violation for leaving Singapore without a passport. Additional charges were considered during sentencing.

The court heard that Chee was recruited by Chua Wee Ming around March of the previous year. Chua, also a Malaysian, had imported e-vaporizers and components into Singapore for sale. The seized goods, valued at approximately S$6.5 million, were being held as evidence by HSA. Chua instructed Chee to monitor the warehouse to assess security, with the intention of facilitating a theft.

Chee carried out the surveillance, but was confronted by HSA officers. He attempted to leave, but was stopped and his vehicle searched. The search revealed drug-related items, including ketamine. Chee was arrested and tested positive for methamphetamine and norketamine. He admitted to using meth and possessing drug paraphernalia.

After being charged and released on bail, Chee contacted Chua, who had promised to arrange his escape if arrested. Chee was instructed to a location in Tuas, where he was smuggled into Malaysia in a lorry driven by another individual, Thanesh Murugan. A warrant was issued for Chee's arrest after he failed to appear in court. He was eventually arrested in Malaysia and returned to Singapore.