On 24/9, the Department of Cybersecurity and High-Tech Crime Prevention (A05, Ministry of Public Security) issued a warning about the "unforeseen dangers" of drugs disguised as e-cigarettes.

According to A05, Pod Chill is cleverly disguised to evade authorities, parents, schools, and deceive consumers, especially teenagers and students. Criminal groups use social media to advertise and entice users with free trials or commissions to expand their distribution network.

A confiscated form of Pod Chill. Photo: A05

A confiscated form of Pod Chill. Photo: A05

Pod Chill is presented as a regular, non-addictive e-cigarette liquid with fruity flavors that helps reduce stress, promotes sleep, and improves focus.

However, A05 points out that "in reality, the oils in Pod Chill are a mixture of chemicals containing drugs like cannabis oil, creating hallucinations and stimulation." These substances can include synthetic cannabinoids prohibited by current law.

Users of Pod Chill may experience negative health effects, including mental and behavioral disorders such as irritability, mood swings, anxiety, and restlessness. This condition can persist, leading to loss of control and even hallucinations.

Users may also experience physical weakness, nausea, headaches, dehydration, and fatigue. More dangerously, Pod Chill is addictive, causing dependence, or acute poisoning, damaging the lungs and internal organs, and even leading to death from overdose.

A05 advises against using Pod Chill out of curiosity or peer pressure, "even just once".

Numerous e-cigarette trafficking rings have recently been dismantled. Photo: A05

Numerous e-cigarette trafficking rings have recently been dismantled. Photo: A05

Since 1/1/2025, e-cigarettes have been officially banned in Vietnam. From 2015 to 2020, the rate of e-cigarette use among adults (15 years and older) increased from 0.2% to 3.6%. Among students aged 13-17, the rate increased from 2.6% (in 2019) to 8.1% (in 2023). Among females aged 11-18, a preliminary survey in 11 provinces and cities showed a usage rate of 4.3% in 2023.

In 2023, 1,224 people were hospitalized due to poisoning and illnesses related to e-cigarettes and heated tobacco products. These products not only harm health and cause nicotine addiction, but also carry the risk of being laced with drugs, as in the case above.