A 20-Year-Old Man Charged in Australia's First Case of Supplying Nitazene-Laced Vape Liquid

In a groundbreaking development, a 20-year-old man has become the first person in Australia to be charged with supplying potentially lethal nitazene-laced vape liquid. The case has sparked concerns among authorities and public health officials, who warn of the extreme dangers posed by this synthetic opioid.

Operation in Sydney's South

Following a months-long investigation, police executed a raid on a property in Revesby, Sydney’s south, where they allegedly uncovered a sophisticated drug distribution network. During the search, officers seized electronics, vape hardware, vials, and over $7,000 in cash. They also found two imitation firearms, an electrical weapon, and a locked safe that contained an additional 1.8 kilograms of nitazene, bringing the total seized to 2.1 kilograms.

Disturbing Evolution in the Drug Trade

According to Detective Superintendent John Watson of the Drug and Firearms Squad, the use of nitazene in vape liquid represents a “disturbing evolution” of the illicit drug trade. He explained that suppliers are deliberately lacing vape liquid with synthetic opioids to create dependency and ensure repeat business.

“It’s calculated, dangerous, and entirely profit-driven,” Watson said. “These individuals are exploiting the popularity of vaping to distribute a substance that is hundreds of times more potent than heroin and can be lethal.”

Faceless and Contactless Distribution

Police allege that the operation was conducted exclusively through social media and was a “faceless and contactless” enterprise. Buyers would pay using cryptocurrency, and the vape liquid would be delivered to pre-arranged locations, with a video sent to the buyer to confirm the drop-off.

Over a five-month period, from March to July, authorities estimate that 1,200 transactions took place, with at least $500,000 exchanged through the network.

Public Health Concerns

NSW Health has warned that nitazenes are highly potent synthetic opioids that can cause severe respiratory depression and are more likely than other opioids to lead to fatal overdoses. Several individuals have reportedly been hospitalized with suspected opioid overdoses, claiming they were unaware of how they had ingested the drug.

Dr. Hester Wilson, an addiction specialist, emphasized the importance of carrying naloxone, a life-saving medication that can temporarily reverse an opioid overdose, including from nitazenes.

A Call for Awareness and Action

Authorities are urging the public to be vigilant and to recognize the signs of an opioid overdose, which can include pinpoint pupils, drowsiness, loss of consciousness, and skin turning blue or grey. They are also calling on users of recreational drugs to carry naloxone at all times.

The case marks a significant shift in the illicit drug trade and has raised serious questions about the need for stronger regulations and public awareness campaigns regarding the dangers of synthetic opioids.