Raid Uncovers Illegal Cough Syrup Operation Linked to ‘4x100’ Kratom Mix

Picture courtesy of Matichon.

Authorities have dismantled a major online distribution network selling illegal pharmaceuticals used in the preparation of the dangerous “4x100” concoction — a narcotic mixture of kratom, cough syrup, and other substances favoured by some youths. The bust led to the seizure of thousands of items with a street value exceeding one million baht.

Acting on orders from Pol. Maj. Gen. Pattanasak Bupphasuwan, officers from the Consumer Protection Police Division (CPPD) conducted simultaneous raids at two locations in Bangkok and Nonthaburi.

The first raid took place at a condominium in Samae Dam, Bang Khun Thian District, where officers found 25 categories of controlled or unregistered pharmaceuticals. These included large quantities of liquid antihistamines and cough suppressants, unregistered medications believed to have been smuggled in from neighbouring countries, and erectile dysfunction drugs such as KAMAGRA. Authorities also seized Class 2 and Class 4 psychotropic substances including Alprazolam and Amitriptyline.

In the second operation, officers searched a residence in Bang Muang Subdistrict, Bang Yai District, Nonthaburi. A 29-year-old man, identified only as Mr Thanakiat, was present and cooperated with the search. Police seized fruit-flavoured syrup (commonly known as “lean”), often misused in drug cocktails, along with other pharmaceutical items.

In total, both locations yielded:

• 1,243 bottles of cough and allergy syrup

• 180 tablets of psychotropic drugs

• 17,544 unregistered pills

• 7,500 hazardous tablets

• 232 bottles of lean syrup

The operation follows increased surveillance of online platforms suspected of illegal drug sales. Authorities noted that youth have increasingly misused over-the-counter medicines — such as painkillers, antihistamines, and cough syrups — by mixing them with kratom in what is colloquially known as “4x100”. This concoction produces hallucinogenic and sedative effects, and carries a high risk of addiction and psychological harm.

Mr Thanakiat, who holds only a high school diploma and no pharmaceutical qualifications, admitted to sourcing the drugs online and selling the mixtures via a Facebook page called Drop Lean Thailand. He told investigators that he had been operating the business for around one year, earning 4,000 to 5,000 baht per month.

He now faces multiple charges, including illegal production, importation, distribution, and possession of psychotropic substances, as well as selling medicines without a licence or registration. He has been transferred to the CPPD’s Division 4 for prosecution.

Pol. Maj. Gen. Pattanasak emphasised the gravity of the operation, pointing to the wide range of dangerous drugs seized, including Class 2 and Class 4 psychotropics. He warned that misuse of these substances in combination with kratom poses a significant public health threat, especially among young people.

  Adapted by Asean Now from Matichon 2025-07-27