The recent case involving Indonesian actor Jonathan Frizzy has shone a harsh light on the dangerous trend of hard drugs being illegally mixed into vape liquids. Frizzy was named a suspect in connection with the smuggling of vapes containing Etomidate, a powerful anesthetic, from Malaysia into Indonesia. This incident underscores a worrying development in drug abuse, where seemingly innocuous vaping devices are being exploited to deliver potent and unregulated substances.
Etomidate is a fast-acting intravenous anesthetic strictly for medical use, typically in hospital settings for inducing general anesthesia or sedation during short procedures. It is not intended for recreational use and can have severe side effects, including nausea, vomiting, muscle spasms, respiratory depression, and even psychosis when misused or taken without medical supervision.
Jonathan Frizzy’s alleged involvement stems from investigations that traced vape cartridges containing Etomidate seized at Soekarno-Hatta Airport. Police revealed that Frizzy played a significant role in arranging and facilitating the shipment of these illicit vapes from Malaysia and Thailand to Indonesia, actively communicating with other suspects in a dedicated WhatsApp group.
Authorities have indicated that Frizzy’s alleged activities, which include being a buyer and distributor, extend back to 2023 or 2024. The case highlights a sophisticated network involved in the illegal trade of this pharmaceutical substance, moving it across international borders and converting it into a form readily abused by unsuspecting or misguided users.
The discovery of Etomidate in vapes liquids, sometimes referred to as “Kpods” or “space oil,” is a concerning global trend. Health authorities worldwide have issued warnings about the severe health risks associated with vaping substances not approved for recreational use, especially when mixed with potent medical-grade drugs like Etomidate.
This case serves as a stark warning about the evolving landscape of drug abuse. The ease with which these substances can be concealed within popular vaping products makes detection challenging and increases the risk of accidental overdose or severe health complications for users unaware of what they are inhaling.