Demon Slayer anime LSD blotters from Germany seized in Thailand
Customs state the packaging poses a bigger risk than the smuggling attempt, as it's hard to distinguish from ordinary stickers
Thai customs seized 529 LSD blotter stamps mailed from Germany on July 21, worth more than THB200,000 (roughly USD5,988)
The package was vacuum-sealed, unusual for ordinary mail, which prompted officers to inspect it further.
Inside was blotter paper printed with artwork lifted from Demon Slayer, the anime known for its immaculate fight animation, now moonlighting as drug packaging.
A chemical test confirmed the paper was soaked in LSD, a drug not manufactured domestically. LSD is classified as a Category 1 narcotic in Thailand.
The listed postal code traced to Chonburi province, consistent with existing intelligence that drugs move through tourist hubs like Chonburi, Pattaya and Koh Samui.
Thailand's Office of the Narcotics Control Board (ONCB) and the Customs Department said traffickers are increasingly printing eye-catching artwork on blotter paper to package the drug.
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Phantong Loykulnanta, Director-General of the Thai Customs Department, reportedly stated that the design is a bigger concern than the smuggling itself; the cartoon artwork makes the drug look safe and easy to access, particularly for young people.
Illustrated blotter paper is harder to distinguish from ordinary stickers, particularly for children and teenagers.
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Deputy Secretary General of the ONCB, Areepak Ngernbamroong, said LSD blotter paper has circulated in Europe for years, but their appearance changes with trends. They tend so use images of popular cartoon characters and eye-catching visuals, because it makes them appealing yet less suspicious.
Parents and schools have been urged to watch for stamp-like or sticker-like items with cartoon designs and to talk openly with kids about drugs.
Amira Waworuntu is Mixmag Asia’s Managing Editor, follow her on Instagram.
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