Picture courtesy of Khoasod.

 

Police have arrested eight individuals believed to be part of a criminal syndicate distributing illegal electronic cigarettes known as “Zombie Vapes” or “Pod K,” which contain a powerful anaesthetic. Assets worth over 16 million baht have been seized in connection with the case.

 

Under the direction of Police Lieutenant General Jiraphop Phuridech, officers from the Consumer Protection Police Division (CPPD) led by Police Major General Pattanachak Bupphasuwan and senior investigators carried out the arrests. The suspects include Thai nationals and one Singaporean citizen: Mr. Sakdachot (23), Mr. Jirawat (19), Ms. Athicha (20), Mr. Natthaphon (33), Ms. Benja (38), Mr. Phanuwat (37), Mr. Lon (37, Singaporean), and Ms. Siwaphon (34).

 

The group faces charges under Thai law prohibiting the sale, production, and distribution of electronic cigarettes and related substances. One individual, identified as Neo Ming, a foreign national, was also found to be residing in the country illegally.

 

During the raid, police confiscated 33 vape cartridges containing the illicit “Pod K” blend, along with luxury items, gold jewellery, land title deeds, a vehicle, and large sums of cash. The total value of the seized property is estimated at 15,779,836 baht.

 

According to authorities, these e-cigarettes were being marketed to nightlife tourists and were found to contain etomidate, a short-acting anaesthetic used medically for minor surgeries. When inhaled, etomidate can severely depress the central nervous system, leading to respiratory distress, unconsciousness, or even death in high doses.

 

“This substance can cause cardiac failure or a complete loss of consciousness, but generally making the user appear like a walking zombie,” said Pol. Maj. Gen. Pattanachak. “The danger posed by this drug-laced vape is severe, and we acted swiftly to track down all those involved.”

 

Four of the suspects, Mr. Sakdachot, Mr. Jirawat, Ms. Athicha, and Mr. Natthaphon, have confessed. Mr. Natthaphon admitted to acting as a middleman, sourcing orders and arranging delivery through Mr. Lon and Ms. Benja, with sales conducted via bank transfers. Each cartridge sold for around 1,300–1,400 baht, with Mr. Natthaphon receiving a 300–400 baht commission per unit. Mr. Lon reportedly handled the logistics, sending the products directly to customers by post.

 

The remaining suspects, Mr. Phanuwat, Mr. Neo Ming, and Ms. Siwaphon, have denied the allegations and are currently in police custody pending further investigation.

 

The case highlights the growing threat of illicit vaping products, especially those containing dangerous or controlled substances. Authorities have pledged to continue cracking down on such networks.

 

 

  Adapted by Asean Now from Khaosod 2025-05-04.

 

 

 

15 hours ago, Georgealbert said:

During the raid, police confiscated 33 vape cartridges containing the illicit “Pod K” blend, along with luxury items, gold jewellery, land title deeds, a vehicle, and large sums of cash. The total value of the seized property is estimated at 15,779,836 baht

 

We're all these items illegal, or should it just be considered collateral damage?

23 hours ago, Xonax said:

 

We're all these items illegal, or should it just be considered collateral damage?

 

Proceeds of crime.