Image Credit: Taiwan News
Taiwanese authorities have raised alarms over the increasing prevalence of the synthetic drug A-PiHP, following a significant drug bust in Taichung. On Thursday, September 12, the Taichung Police Department reported the seizure of A-PiHP, known as “rainbow cigarettes,” amid an operation targeting designer drugs. The investigation, which took place from May to August, led to the arrest of seven individuals involved in the drug trade, as confirmed by CNA.
A-PiHP, classified as a class three drug in Taiwan, has seen a rapid rise in use over recent years. The police emphasised that A-PiHP poses severe health risks, including lung and kidney damage, convulsions, vomiting, and muscle breakdown. The drug, along with other synthetic cathinones and ketamine, was confiscated during the raid, which also yielded 26 rainbow cigarettes, 350 “coffee bags,” and 50 grams of ketamine, alongside various distribution tools.
The drug distribution network, based in a warehouse in Taichung’s Beitun District, was reportedly led by a 30-year-old man identified by his surname, Lai. The police revealed that the group employed instant messaging platforms such as WeChat to promote their products. Authorities have compared the dangers of A-PiHP to those of etomidate, another synthetic drug that has gained traction recently.
This incident underscores the growing threat posed by synthetic drugs in Taiwan and highlights the urgent need for continued vigilance and enforcement efforts to combat the spread of these dangerous substances.