3,800 fined for smoking in smoke-free zones in 2012
By Kheng Leng, Qiuyi | Posted: 10 December 2012 2106 hrs
Smokers outside Nex mall in Serangoon.
Singapore: Some 3,800 people were caught smoking in smoke-free zones this year.
The National Environment Agency (NEA) said most of the offenders were found in or around shopping centres.
Nex mall in Serangoon is one hotspot for smoking offences.
More than 140 people alone were caught here this year.
Smoking is banned in shopping centres, as well as within five metres of their entrances and exits.
Offences within the five-metre boundary have dropped 80 per cent to 60 cases this year, compared to 270 last year, since authorities started uniformed patrols in these areas.
Next month, more public places in Singapore will go smoke-free.
NEA is extending the smoking ban to HDB corridors, void decks, and covered walkways.
Overhead pedestrian bridges and the outdoor areas of hospitals will also be included.
People found smoking in these places could be fined S$200.
- CNA/lp
