BANGKOK — Police have arrested a Singaporean man and three Thai women for trafficking ‘zombie vapes’—e-cigarette cartridges containing Etomidate, a controlled anesthetic popular among wealthy clients and influencers.
The Women and Children Welfare Protection Division and ONCB Bangkok conducted raids at two luxury condominiums in Huai Khwang and Din Daeng districts, seizing 150 Etomidate vape cartridges, ketamine, and assets worth over 8.3 million baht ($257,500).
Officers first apprehended Ms. Atchariya, 22, and Ms. Khanapich, 27, at a Huai Khwang condominium as they delivered products to customers. The women confessed to selling cartridges at 1,800-2,000 baht ($60-62) each, moving 50-100 units daily to hi-so clients and online celebrities.
Following leads, police conducted a sting operation at a Din Daeng luxury condominium, arresting Singaporean national Mr. Kingley (Tommy), 33, and his Thai girlfriend Ms. Lalita (Ann), 24, with 130 cartridges and over 1 million baht in cash.
All four face charges of trafficking Category 2 narcotics. The Singaporean also faces charges for overstaying his visa.
Etomidate is a medical anesthetic that Thailand reclassified as a Category 2 narcotic in July 2025 after its abuse in vape products. Side effects include euphoria and drowsiness, but overdoses can cause loss of consciousness, zombie-like behavior, oxygen deprivation, and death.
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