Police arrest foreigner for selling narcotic-laced e-cigarettes

Police arrested a foreign national for selling e-cigarettes laced with Category 1 and 2 narcotics, seizing the contraband and charging the individual.

Today, officers from the Narcotics Suppression Bureau, directed by Police Lieutenant General Kheereesak Tantinwachai, launched an anti-drug operation in Pattaya targeting new drug forms, with a heavy emphasis on the quickly emerging Pod-K electronic cigarettes.

The operation led to the arrest of 34 year old Yao, also known as Boy Uheng, a Singaporean national residing in Bang Bo District, Samut Prakan Province.

Police confiscated several items during the operation, most notably a highly potent narcotic and psychoactive Category 1 drug (methamphetamine and ketamine) in liquid form, contained in clear plastic e-cigarette pods.

Previously, 90 pods were obtained from a sting operation near a department store in Lat Phrao District, Bangkok, establishing Yao as a prime suspect in the case.

Additionally, another 20 e-cigarette pod containing the same Category 1 narcotic in liquid form was found in the console of the suspect’s vehicle. This black plastic pod was discovered during a search after the suspect delivered the previously mentioned 90 pods to undercover agents.

Yao now faces charges for the distribution and possession of a Category 1 narcotic mixed with a Category 2 psychoactive substance (methamphetamine and ketamine) in liquid form, intended for commercial distribution, which violates Thai law and poses a significant public health risk.

He has since been handed over to the investigation officers at the Narcotics Suppression Bureau for further legal action, reported Khaosod.

The Thai authorities emphasised the importance of this operation, noting the increasing trend of drug dealers using innovative methods to distribute narcotics, making it crucial for law enforcement to adapt and counter these evolving threats effectively.

In similar news, authorities in Thailand are set to take decisive action against the illegal use of e-cigarettes, emphasising the need to protect children from the health risks associated with vaping.