Elite Drug Ring Busted Selling ‘Zombie Vapes’ to Thailand’s Influencers
Thai police have sensationally taken down an international drug syndicate after arresting a Singaporean man and three Thai women suspected of selling highly dangerous ‘Zombie Vapes’ to affluent clients and social media influencers. During a sweeping operation across luxury city apartments, officers uncovered a stash of illicit substances valued at over 8.3 million Baht—equivalent to approximately 257,500 US dollars.
The dramatic crackdown came following extensive investigations and was led by the women’s and children’s protection division along with officers from the Office of Narcotics Control Board (ONCB) in Bangkok. These coordinated raids targeted exclusive addresses in the city’s Huai Khwang and Din Daeng districts, which are widely known for their upmarket residences and high security.
‘Zombie Vapes’ Laced With Potent Anaesthetic Spark Fears
At the centre of this latest drug scare are e-cigarette cartridges marketed on the underground scene as ‘Zombie Vapes.’ These cartridges contain Etomidate, a powerful anaesthetic recently classified as a category-2 drug under Thai law as of July 2025.
Police are warning young Thais and foreigners about the acute risks associated with these vapes. Users experience euphoria and heavy drowsiness, but authorities stress that an overdose can swiftly lead to loss of consciousness, dangerously low oxygen levels and even death. The term ‘Zombie Vape’ comes from the vacant, dazed state observed in those addicted to the drug—a state described by officers as ‘zombie-like.’ According to one investigating officer, ‘These vapes leave users barely able to function; it’s deeply alarming.’
Police Strike in Lavish Apartments as Influencers Targeted
The police made their first arrest in the Huai Khwang district, apprehending 22-year-old Atchariya and 27-year-old Khanapich as they allegedly prepared to distribute the vapes to customers. The two women confessed to selling between 50 and 100 cartridges per day, each fetching between 1,800 and 2,000 Baht, directly targeting wealthy Thais and those with social media notoriety.
Their testimony led investigators to a second high-end apartment in Din Daeng. This time, police detained 33-year-old Singaporean Kingley, known as ‘Tommy,’ and his 24-year-old Thai girlfriend Lalita, also called ‘Ann.’ Inside, authorities discovered 130 Etomidate cartridges, along with over one million Baht in cash—evidence of a lucrative business reaching deep into the world of celebrity and online fame.
International Operation and Lavish Spoils Uncovered
The extent of the operation shocked even seasoned officers. Stylish cars, designer goods and a total haul exceeding 8.3 million Baht were seized during the raid. For now, all four suspects face serious criminal charges for trafficking in category-2 narcotics. In addition, Kingley, the ringleader, is being charged with residing in Thailand illegally.
A police spokesperson revealed: ‘This organisation deliberately targeted the wealthiest elements of Thai society, especially those in influencer circles.’ Officers believe the luxury setting helped camouflage the operation, making it harder for law enforcement to trace.
‘Zombie Vapes’ Expose Deadly Trend Among Young Elite
The rise of ‘Zombie Vapes’ represents a grim new trend sweeping through Thailand’s party scene. Etomidate, designed strictly for medical purposes, has become a tool for traffickers, exploited for its incapacitating effects. ‘It’s frightening to realise how vulnerable users become,’ a police official noted. ‘One moment everything seems fine, the next they collapse without warning.’
In response to a growing number of incidents, Thai authorities reclassified Etomidate as an illegal category-2 drug last July, moving quickly to stem its spread across the country’s high-end nightspots. Still, this latest case proves drug dealers are always ready to adapt, zeroing in on the most lucrative market—young, wealthy clients.
Police Probe Widens as Social Media Stars Draw Scrutiny
Police say their investigation is far from over. Early evidence suggests this network may be only the tip of the iceberg. Officers are actively pursuing other suspects and potential customers, with a particular focus on the influencer community that has helped fuel demand.
‘This successful crackdown sends a clear message: even the elite cannot hide from the law,’ declared a senior spokesperson. ‘Thailand’s police now recognise the real threat posed by these designer drugs—and won’t hesitate to take on even the most privileged offenders.’