Ministry of Justice reiterates repercussions for cyanide possession

The Ministry of Justice issued a stern warning to the public regarding the unauthorised possession of cyanide, which carries a potential prison sentence of up to two years and a fine not exceeding 200,000 baht, or both.

The deputy spokesperson for the Prime Minister’s Office, Kanika Unjit, today, July 18, addressed the shocking incident that led to six Vietnamese nationals being poisoned with cyanide in a hotel in Bangkok.

Kanika emphasised that cyanide is surprisingly accessible and can be found in everyday items such as rice, wheat, peaches, and mangoes.

In industrial settings, cyanide is extensively used in the production of nylon and is most commonly found in pesticides. The substance is highly toxic, even a minute amount can have immediate and severe effects on the central nervous system, liver, kidneys, and cardiovascular system.

Kanika explained that the severity of symptoms depends on the quantity of cyanide ingested, the duration of exposure, and the method of entry into the body, whether through ingestion, inhalation, or skin absorption, reported KhaoSod.

Large doses of cyanide can cause symptoms to appear almost immediately, starting with headaches, palpitations, flushed face, breathing difficulties, seizures, loss of consciousness, respiratory arrest, and potentially cardiac arrest within ten minutes. Kanika reiterated the punishments for the possession of cyanide.

“The government, through the Ministry of Justice, strongly warns the public that cyanide is classified as a type 3 hazardous substance under the Hazardous Substances Act of 1992 and its subsequent amendments. According to Sections 23 and 73, anyone who produces, imports, exports, or possesses type 3 hazardous substances without permission faces imprisonment for up to two years or a fine not exceeding 200,000 baht or both.”

The Ministry of Justice’s warning serves as a crucial reminder of the legal and health risks associated with cyanide. The ease with which this toxic substance can be obtained and the severe consequences of exposure highlight the critical need for public awareness and stringent regulation.