INDONESIAN customs in Batam thwarted a smuggling attempt on Dec 17 when a passenger arriving from Malaysia was caught with 148 vape pods containing etomidate – a hazardous anaesthetic drug with effects similar to ketamine.
The suspect, an Indonesian man, was flagged by sniffer dog Bary during routine checks at Harbour Bay Ferry Terminal.
A search and X-ray revealed the contraband in his luggage. Laboratory tests confirmed etomidate in all pods, while the suspect tested positive for amphetamine and methamphetamine.
Batam Customs compliance head Evi Octavia praised officers’ vigilance in preventing narcotics entry. The case has been handed to police.
Etomidate, used intravenously for short medical procedures, is increasingly abused in vape form, often called “Kpods” – pods laced with anaesthetics posing severe health risks, including psychosis.
The incident coincides with regional crackdowns.
Health Minister Datuk Seri Dzulkefly Ahmad announced plans for a full vaping ban by end-2026, citing mental health concerns from adulterated liquids.
Singapore, equating vaping with drug use, has intensified border checks and banned the practice following rising Kpod use among youth.
Ironically, stricter Singapore policies could boost Batam tourism.
Batam Tourism Agency head Ardiwinata noted that Singaporeans often cross to Batam for activities restricted at home, including vaping, golf, and sports.
“As long as it complies with our regulations, they can choose Batam,” he said, highlighting growing attractions like eateries and religious tourism.
The case underscores rising cross-border challenges as Southeast Asian nations tighten vaping controls amid public health alarms. — Dec 27, 2025
Main photo credit: The Jakarta Post
