Three Chinese nationals arrested in Pattaya over illegal 'zombie vape' manufacturing operation
Thai police arrested three Chinese nationals at a luxury Pattaya house in May 2026 for illegally manufacturing "zombie vapes" laced with the controlled sedative etomidate. Authorities seized chemicals, equipment, and approximately 2,700 emp
CHONBURI — On May 12, 2026, Thai police arrested three Chinese nationals during a raid on a luxury house in Pattaya allegedly used to produce 'zombie vapes' containing the controlled sedative etomidate, authorities said.
The operation was carried out by officers from the Economic Crime Suppression Division under orders from Police Lieutenant General Natthasak Chaowanasai and Pol. Maj. Gen. Thatphum Charuprat, with Police Colonel Naruephon Karuna leading the arrest team.
The three Chinese suspects were arrested at a property on Nong Krabok Road in Bang Lamung district.
Police charged them with illegally producing and possessing etomidate, a Category 2 psychotropic substance, for commercial distribution. They were also accused of working outside the scope permitted for foreign nationals in Thailand.
Authorities seized a large quantity of chemicals and manufacturing equipment from the two-storey house, including industrial chemical containers, white chemical powder, sodium bicarbonate, production machinery, weighing and sealing equipment, and approximately 2,700 empty vape pod packages believed to be intended for sale.
Investigators said the property appeared to have been used as a production site for 'zombie vapes,' a term used in Thailand for e-cigarettes mixed with etomidate, an anaesthetic drug that can cause severe drowsiness and dangerous side effects.
Police said forensic officers later tested the substances found at the scene and confirmed the presence of etomidate, which is classified in Thailand as a Category 2 psychotropic substance and a key ingredient in the illicit vape products.
The suspects denied the allegations during questioning. They were taken into custody along with the seized evidence for further legal action by narcotics suppression investigators.
