Singapore – Soon Yong Chao, 28, was sentenced to three months and 28 weeks’ jail and fined $4,600 on January 22 after pleading guilty to six charges stemming from a series of offenses committed between 2021 and 2024. These offenses included the sale of vapes and threatening his mother with a katana.
Details of the Case
The court heard that the incidents began on February 22, 2025, when Soon argued with his 57-year-old mother, referred to as “Chiang” in court documents, over a car payment. After his mother refused to assist and suggested selling the vehicle, Soon reportedly became angry and poured water from the second story of their home onto the first floor.
The situation escalated when Soon retrieved a 30cm katana from his bedroom and confronted his mother, demanding, “What you want now?” Soon’s parents subsequently filed a police report, leading to his arrest.
Illegal Vape Sales
Prior to the incident with his mother, Soon had been involved in the illegal sale of e-cigarettes, beginning in January 2021. A tip-off to the Health Sciences Authority on March 18, 2021, led to a controlled delivery and a search of a unit rented by Soon. Authorities discovered 1,153 e-cigarette vaporisers and 16,299 e-cigarette pods.
Soon admitted to selling the items for profit, earning between $5,000 and $8,000 each month.
Unauthorized Vehicle Use
On March 30, 2025, Soon took his mother’s car keys without permission, despite his driving license being suspended from March 25, 2025, to September 8, 2025. He drove the vehicle to pick up a friend and subsequently drove around aimlessly until being stopped by police along Boon Lay Way after a member of the public reported erratic driving near Tuas Checkpoint.
What Happens Next?
It is possible that Soon will be subject to further monitoring or restrictions upon his release. Depending on the terms of his sentence, he could be required to comply with specific conditions, such as regular check-ins with a probation officer. It is also possible that authorities may pursue further action related to the illegal vape sales, though this is not indicated in the available information. The court’s consideration of a 12-month disqualification from obtaining a license suggests a desire to prevent future illicit activities.
Frequently Asked Questions
What charges did Soon Yong Chao plead guilty to?
Soon Yong Chao pleaded guilty to six charges, including possessing vapes for sale and threatening his mother with a katana.
What was the extent of the e-cigarette operation?
Authorities found 1,153 e-cigarette vaporisers and 16,299 e-cigarette pods in Soon’s rental unit, and he admitted to earning between $5,000 and $8,000 monthly from their sale.
Was Soon Yong Chao licensed to drive at the time he was arrested?
No, Soon Yong Chao’s driving license was suspended from March 25, 2025, to September 8, 2025, at the time he was found driving his mother’s car.
Considering the range of offenses and the length of time over which they occurred, what factors do you think contribute to individuals engaging in repeated criminal behavior?
