Authorities Busts “Zombie Vape” Gang Smuggling From India

Thai authorities have dismantled a criminal network smuggling etomidate into Thailand and mixing it into e-cigarette products, seizing 28 kilogrammes of the substance valued at more than 20 million baht. The operation, codenamed “Anti Zombies”, led to the arrest of seven suspects across Bangkok, Udon Thani, Roi Et, and Nakhon Si Thammarat on 9 April 2026. Officers also confiscated 952 grammes of powdered etomidate, 920 vape pods containing the drug, 17 gallons of e-liquid materials, laboratory equipment, and 1.3 grammes of crystal methamphetamine.

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Authorities said the investigation began when intelligence from international sources indicating that the group was importing etomidate from India. The substance was falsely declared as a cosmetic ingredient to evade customs checks, before being released from Suvarnabhumi Airport using hired shipping agents. It was then transported to an illegal factory in Udon Thani, where it was mixed into vape liquids and distributed to young people and tourists in nightlife venues, as well as exported to neighbouring countries.

Police explained that etomidate is a medical anaesthetic but has been repurposed as a cheaper alternative to ketamine. Import costs were estimated at around 700,000 baht per kilogramme, with each kilogramme capable of producing up to 3,000 vape units. These were sold at prices ranging from 1,500 to 2,000 baht per piece, generating significant profits for the network.

Officials warned that the drug has serious health risks, affecting the nervous system and causing users to lose control and coordination, leading to its nickname “zombie vape”. They added that combining etomidate with alcohol could result in shock or immediate death. Thailand classified etomidate as a Category 2 psychotropic substance under narcotics law on 27 June 2025.

All suspects face charges under the Customs Act 2017 for false declarations and evasion, as well as under narcotics legislation for importing controlled substances for commercial purposes without permission. Authorities are continuing to expand the investigation to identify financiers and other members of the network.

Thaitabloid reported that officials said further arrests are expected as efforts continue to dismantle the wider supply chain and prevent the spread of drug-laced vaping products in entertainment areas.

Pictures courtesy of Thaitabloid

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Adapted by ASEAN Now Nation 10 Apr 2026