BNN Highlights Unregulated Sale of Whip Pink at Entertainment Venues: Effects Can Be Fatal

The head of the National Narcotics Agency (BNN), Suyudi Ario Seto, has spoken out about the phenomenon of nitrous oxide (N₂O), known as Whip Pink, circulating among young people. He drew attention to the unregulated sale of the substance at entertainment venues.

“This includes what is currently making headlines — N₂O gas, known as Whip Pink, which is actually intended for food preparation, coffee flavouring, and similar purposes,” said Suyudi whilst opening a focus group discussion on the Regulation of Electronic Cigarettes (Vapes) and Restrictions on the Use of Dinitrogen Oxide (Whip Pink), held at the BNN headquarters in East Jakarta on Wednesday (18/2/2026).

However, the substance — which is properly used for medical purposes (anaesthesia) and as a food additive — is frequently misused to obtain a momentary sensation of euphoria.

“Young people use Whip Pink to get a brief sensation of intoxication or a high,” said Suyudi.

He further noted the existence of package sales systems at entertainment venues that include whipping as one of the items, without any clear regulation.

“What is even more concerning, and frankly absurd, is that Whip Pink is sold freely inside entertainment venues. Some operate a package system — you enter and are given whipping. It’s insane that it has come to this,” Suyudi revealed.

The former Banten Police Chief warned that recreational use of Whip Pink is extremely dangerous, with potentially fatal neurological consequences.

“Our young people use it to stimulate themselves, seeking a high, seeking the euphoric fantasy they hope will produce laughing effects and so on,” said Suyudi.

“But clearly, the effects do not stop there. They also impact health and can even result in death,” he continued.

Suyudi therefore called on all government elements and relevant stakeholders to urgently formulate strict regulations to limit the circulation of Whip Pink outside its intended purposes. The aim is to provide an appropriate legal framework for addressing violations on the ground.

“This must also encompass anticipatory measures against the circulation of whipping,” he added.

“Our struggle today is a struggle for the civilisation of the future. We do not want to bequeath a generation that looks like zombies as a result of narcotics camouflaged in the form of vapour,” he concluded.