The Head of the National Narcotics Agency (BNN), Commissioner General Suyudi Ario Seto, has formally requested that a ban on vapes, or electronic cigarettes, be included in the ongoing discussions for the Narcotics and Psychotropics Bill. This urgent plea comes in the wake of disturbing findings by the BNN, which revealed the presence of narcotic substances in numerous vape liquids.
Commissioner General Suyudi highlighted the alarming proliferation of narcotic substances being distributed in the form of vapes. Addressing members of Commission III of the House of Representatives (DPR RI) on Tuesday (April 7th), he underscored the gravity of the situation. “Currently, we are confronted with the massive phenomenon of narcotic substance circulation in the form of vapes or electronic cigarettes. Based on the results of laboratory tests conducted by the BNN’s central lab on 341 samples of vape liquid, we uncovered some truly shocking facts,” Suyudi stated.
Elaborating on the extensive testing, Suyudi detailed the specific dangerous compounds identified within these vape liquids. He revealed that 11 samples were found to contain synthetic cannabinoids, a concerning class of designer drugs known for their potent psychoactive effects. Furthermore, one sample tested positive for methamphetamine, commonly known as ‘sabu,’ a highly addictive stimulant. Perhaps most notably, a substantial 23 samples were proven to contain etomidate, an anesthetic medication. “Etomidate is classified as an anesthetic drug, gentlemen,” he emphasized to the parliamentary commission.
Suyudi further touched upon the rapid evolution of narcotic substances, including the emergence of novel psychoactive compounds. He specifically drew attention to the reclassification of etomidate, which has now officially been integrated into the list of Class II narcotics. “Regarding the etomidate found in these vape liquid contents, we should be grateful that, based on Minister of Health Regulation Number 15 of 2025, and effective since November 28, 2025, the substance etomidate has officially entered the list of Class II narcotics. Previously, enforcement against this type of case could only utilize health laws, which notably carried lighter penalties,” Suyudi explained, highlighting the significant legal implications of this reclassification.