Taiwan police publicly destroy US$1,52 million in drugs in anti-narcotics operation

On Friday, July 19, the Taichung City Police Department made a bold move against drug trafficking, destroying 100 kilograms of illegal narcotics valued at roughly US$1,52 million (NT$50 million).

The haul included 1,986 items of Class III and IV drugs and paraphernalia such as ketamine, ecstasy, and new psychoactive substances (NPS).

Working with the Taichung Inspectors' Office and Government Ethics Office, the Criminal Investigation Division verified the quantities and contents.

Escorted by 24 armed officers, the drugs were taken to the incineration plant to be publicly destroyed, showcasing the police's commitment to fighting drug-related crimes.

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Authorities highlighted the potential dangers of these substances if they had reached the streets, noting the presence of NPS like mephedrone (Meow Meow), drug coffee packets laced with 3,3-dimethylbutyric acid (DMBA), rainbow cigarettes, and sibutramine, a Class IV narcotic misused in weight-loss products.

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According to the United States National Library of Medicine, mephedrone aka Meow Meow is a synthetic drug that causes euphoria and heightened appreciation for music, but can also cause severe side effects like hallucinations, paranoia, and seizures.

With the rise of new drugs, the department is doubling down on its anti-narcotics efforts and has hinted that crackdowns and seizures will intensify.

Via CNA & Taiwan News

[Image via CNA & Taiwan News]

Amira Waworuntu is Mixmag Asia’s Managing Editor, follow her on Instagram.

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