Hong Kong is taking action to ban a dangerous new drug called “space oil” in 2023. The drug, often sold in e-cigarette capsules, contains a harmful anaesthetic called etomidate. This substance can cause both physical and mental harm to those who use it. The Secretary for Security, Chris Tang Ping-keung, announced that etomidate will be added to the list of banned substances next year. Possession or use of space oil could result in up to seven years in prison and a hefty fine. Trafficking the drug could lead to life imprisonment and an even larger fine.
The emergence of space oil was noticed by anti-drug workers last year, particularly among young people who were vaping it. The government has reported an increase in arrests related to space oil, with 69 people being apprehended for possession or sale of the drug this year alone. Last week, six teenagers were arrested for selling or possessing space oil disguised as e-cigarette capsules.
According to the Action Committee Against Narcotics, space oil has become the third most popular drug among young users, following cannabis and cocaine. The liquid substance often contains etomidate, which is a prescription drug and is sometimes mixed with other substances like cannabis and ketamine. Vaping space oil can have severe consequences, including addiction, memory loss, seizures, loss of consciousness, and even death.
In response to the rising issue of space oil, the government plans to increase control over etomidate. Education on the dangers of this drug is crucial in reducing its demand, and authorities have already begun working with schools to raise awareness. The commissioner for narcotics has reached out to primary and secondary schools to alert them to the dangers of vaping space oil. Additionally, the narcotics division has been conducting anti-drug talks in schools to educate students about the harmful effects of space oil.
It is essential for the community to be aware of the risks associated with space oil and to support the government’s efforts in combating its prevalence. By working together to educate young people and crack down on the distribution of this dangerous drug, we can help protect the well-being of our society.
