On 1/2, the Department of Drug Crime Investigation Police (C04), Ministry of Public Security, announced the arrest of 17 suspects for their involvement in drug trafficking and transportation.

Previously, on 9/1, C04, in collaboration with relevant units, apprehended Nguyen Cong Oanh, 23, residing in Tay Ho ward, during an emergency search. Oanh was caught delivering seven drug-containing packages to an express delivery service for shipment to various provinces. Following this, C04 expanded its investigation to Ninh Binh, Hai Phong, Bac Ninh, Tuyen Quang, and Hung Yen provinces, simultaneously arresting and searching the residences of 10 other suspects within the ring.

During the operation, police seized 9 kg of herbal drugs, 6 liters of CBD essential oil solution, 7,5 liters of finished drug solution, and 308 drug-laced tobacco sticks. According to assessments by the Institute of Criminal Science, Ministry of Public Security, all collected samples contained narcotics.

Nguyen Cong Oanh at the time of his arrest. *Photo: Police provided*

According to C04, most of the drugs were disguised as e-cigarettes, "pod chill," and CBD solutions. The target demographic included teenagers, high school students, and university students.

To reach users, the ring utilized social media for advertising and sales. After receiving bank transfers, they hired express delivery services to transport the products directly to customers. This poses a significant danger, as consumers were often unaware that the products they used contained narcotics, deceived by the appearance and advertisements claiming "odorless, non-addictive."

Drugs disguised as e-cigarettes can cause paranoia, memory impairment

In a warning issued on the same day, C04 highlighted that drug traffickers are employing increasingly sophisticated methods. Drugs are often disguised under names such as e-cigarettes, herbs, tobacco, or "mild stimulants." These products sound harmless and easily pique curiosity, advertised as non-addictive and "just for relaxation."

In reality, these products directly affect the nervous system, causing psychological disorders, memory impairment, paranoia, and loss of behavioral control. For teenagers, a demographic developing both physically and mentally, the consequences are even more severe. Drugs can impact brain function, reducing learning and cognitive abilities. Furthermore, narcotics increase the risk of depression, emotional disorders, and even self-harm or harm to others.

Drug-disguised e-cigarettes seized. *Photo: Police provided*

"Many individuals, out of curiosity, tried it once and fell into the spiral of addiction, losing their future and causing pain to families and society," C04 warned.

For prevention, C04 advised parents to regularly monitor their children. If children receive unusual packages or exhibit strange symptoms such as irritability or prolonged fatigue, parents should investigate immediately.