To Prevent Narcotics Circulation, West Java BNN Tightens Surveillance on Vapes

The National Narcotics Agency (BNN) of West Java Province is beginning to increase vigilance against the trend of e-cigarette (vape) use among the younger generation. This step is being taken following findings of the misuse of vape liquids that have been adulterated with narcotic substances. Head of BNN West Java, Brigadier General of Police Sulistyo Pudjo Hartono, revealed that vapes, which are currently a lifestyle trend among teenagers, have become an easy target for the circulation of new types of narcotics. Perpetrators are inserting dangerous substances into their fillings to deceive officers and the public. “The use of vapes as a cigarette substitute trend among the younger generation is now being exploited by narcotics networks by filling the liquid with narcotic substances,” said Sulistyo in Bandung on Monday (6/4). He mentioned that several substances commonly found in those vape liquids include Etomidate and THC or liquid cannabis. Etomidate is a narcotic substance with relaxant properties that has been found in several regions such as Yogyakarta and Jakarta. The circulation of this substance is considered highly dangerous and has high economic value. “This liquid THC is essentially liquid cannabis inserted into vape fillings. Its price is quite expensive and its effects are very damaging,” he said. To break the chain of circulation, BNN West Java will tighten surveillance on vape distribution in shops as well as places where young people gather. Sulistyo emphasised that his side, through the Eradication Division, will synergise with the Central Food and Drug Supervisory Agency (BBPOM) and other related institutions. “We will follow up by conducting strict surveillance, especially in hangout spots. The problem is that visually, the public finds it difficult to distinguish between normal vapes and those already containing narcotics,” he explained. To date, BNN continues to track the sources of production of those dangerous liquids, whether from domestic origins or imports from abroad. Surveillance in the West Java region and surroundings is a priority given the high population of teenage vape users in this area. “Parents and vape shop managers must be more selective and alert to the circulation of liquids without official permits or containing suspicious substances,” he stressed.