BNN Raises Serious Concerns Over Liquid Narcotics Mixed into Vapes

Jakarta (ANTARA) - The National Narcotics Board (BNN) has raised serious concerns over the phenomenon of liquid narcotics being mixed into electronic cigarettes, or vapes. BNN Chief Commissioner General Suyudi Ario Seto stated that this issue is particularly alarming because the use of vapes is currently massive, even among students.

BNN has recorded cases involving vapes containing etomidate, an anaesthetic agent that can cause serious effects if misused. Suyudi noted that several countries, such as Thailand and Singapore, have already implemented bans on vape usage.

BNN held an audience with the Supervisory Board of the National Brain Centre Hospital, which is also a Health Ministry expert, to discuss the matter. The meeting focused on the rising misuse of liquid narcotics in e-cigarettes and explored the handling of drug dependency through the development of rehabilitation services, research, and strengthened inter-agency collaboration.

Suyudi revealed plans to hold a meeting with the Minister of Health in the near future to strengthen cross-sector collaboration in facing new challenges, including the evolving methods of narcotics abuse through vape media.

Previously, President Prabowo Subianto stated that a total ban on e-cigarettes could be implemented if joint studies show they pose greater risks and serve as a gateway for new types of narcotics. The President instructed the BNN, the Minister of Health, the Minister of Trade, the Minister of Law, the Food and Drug Monitoring Agency, and the Directorate General of Customs and Excise to convene immediately to formulate and strictly regulate the governance of e-cigarette trade in Indonesia.