Batam: Indonesian authorities have seized etomidate-laced vape cartridges and other narcotics worth an estimated Rp5.1 billion (RM1.16 million) during a joint anti-drug operation in Batam, Riau Islands, officials said.

According to Nam News Network, Indonesia's National Narcotics Agency (BNN) Deputy for Eradication, Insp Gen Dr. Aswin Sipayung, stated that officers seized 170 etomidate-laced vape cartridges concealed inside snack food packaging. This discovery led to the uncovering of what authorities have described as an international drug trafficking syndicate, allegedly smuggling drugs from Malaysia.

The joint operation with the Directorate General of Customs and Excise resulted in the arrest of six Indonesian suspects. However, two foreign nationals, believed to be the syndicate's main suppliers, remain at large. The syndicate employed a relatively new modus operandi by smuggling etomidate liquid and vape cartridges from Malaysia through illegal "rat ports." To evade detection, the items were concealed inside snack food packaging.

The vape cartridges were also repackaged using plastic heat-sealing equipment to resemble packaged snack products. This is considered a sophisticated form of disguise, Sipayung said in a statement on Monday. The operation was launched following intelligence about the smuggling of illegal goods via a sea route, leading to simultaneous raids at four locations in Batam.

Officers also seized 12 vials of etomidate, 1,076.18 grammes of MDMA powder, 50 grammes of methamphetamine, 10 ecstasy pills, 86 Happy Five pills, 25.6 grammes of ketamine, 88 vape devices, and packaging equipment. Aswin stated that the seizure was estimated to have prevented about 13,964 people from potential drug abuse.

The suspects are being investigated under Indonesia's Narcotics Law, which carries a maximum penalty of death or life imprisonment.