Police Arrest Chinese National, Seize 207 Etomidate Cartridges in South Tangerang

SOUTH TANGERANG, KOMPAS.com - Police seized 207 cartridges containing the liquid narcotic etomidate, branded as “Want Sex”, in a residential area in Salembaran Jati, South Tangerang Regency, on Monday (16/2/2026). Two suspects, identified as UL and AW, were arrested in connection with the seizure. AW is a foreign national from China. South Tangerang Police Chief AKBP Boy Jumalolo said the investigation began with information from the public regarding the alleged sale of etomidate cartridges in the Pantai Indah Kapuk (PIK) II area, Kosambi, South Tangerang Regency. At the location, police found 207 cartridges of various colours, branded “Want Sex”, each containing the liquid narcotic etomidate. During questioning, UL admitted to purchasing the illicit goods from an individual with the initials AH, who is now on the wanted list, through an intermediary, AW. “The team then conducted further investigation and successfully apprehended suspect AW, who acted as the intermediary in the sale,” said Boy. According to the police, UL purchased the etomidate cartridges for Rp 2 million each and resold them for Rp 4.5 million each. The total value of the seized goods is estimated at Rp 931.5 million. According to the suspects’ statements, one cartridge can be used by five people. The suspects will be charged under Article 119, paragraph (2) of Law Number 35 of 2009 concerning Narcotics, as amended, which carries a penalty of death, life imprisonment, or a maximum prison sentence of 20 years. Meanwhile, Head of the Narcotics Unit of the South Tangerang Police, Pardiman, said that the distribution of etomidate is suspected to be part of a transnational network. “Based on the information we received, the goods originate from Malaysia and are distributed in the Jakarta, Tangerang, and Greater Jakarta areas,” said Pardiman. The distribution is carried out through social media and in person. Based on the selling price, which ranges from Rp 4 million to Rp 6 million per cartridge, the narcotics are suspected to be targeting the middle to upper class. “Judging by the price, this targets a specific group. There are indications that it is circulating in entertainment venues,” he said. Police said they are continuing to investigate to find the main supplier and other individuals suspected of being involved in the etomidate distribution network. KOMPAS.com is committed to providing clear, trustworthy, and balanced facts. Support the sustainability of quality journalism and enjoy ad-free reading by joining KOMPAS.com Plus now.