BNN Chief Reveals Vape Liquid Containing Ketamine, an Animal Anaesthetic

The Head of the Indonesian National Narcotics Agency (BNN), Police Commissioner General Suyudi Ario Seto, has revealed that drug trafficking methods are now targeting vape liquids. He stated that some vape liquids have been found to contain ketamine, an anaesthetic commonly used for animals.

The statement was made during his speech at the International Anti-Narcotics Day (HANI) commemoration in Lido, Bogor, West Java, on Thursday (23/7/2026). He detailed several narcotic substances that have been mixed into vape liquids.

"Laboratory tests conducted by BNN on a number of vape liquid samples circulating in the community found the presence of cannabinoids, synthetic methamphetamine, and etomidate," Suyudi said.

He explained that etomidate is a substance commonly used as an anaesthetic by dentists. "So this etomidate, if I may explain, is an anaesthetic usually used by dentists for anaesthesia," he noted.

Furthermore, Suyudi described the presence of ketamine, which is essentially an animal anaesthetic. "There is also something called ketamine. This ketamine is an anaesthetic typically used for animals. This is the substance that is often abused by our young people," he said.

Consequently, the BNN continues to prioritise balanced prevention efforts. "On that basis, BNN RI continues to refine the P4GN (National Movement for the Prevention and Eradication of Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking) through an increasingly comprehensive and balanced approach," he stated. "Firm and without compromise against dealers and narcotics networks, yet humane in rehabilitating abusers and victims," he added.