Asia threatened by Carfentanil adulterant

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2024
Carfentanil. (Photo/RCMP via AP)
Carfentanil. (Photo/RCMP via AP)

Bangkok – The Asian region is facing a threat of Carfentanil, a lethal chemical used as adulterant in illicit drugs currently widespread in Europe, said International Narcotics Control Board (INCB) chief Wiroj Sumyai.

He said there has been a widespread use of the lethal chemical named Carfentanil in Europe and Asia at an alarming rate.

Carfentanil comes as white powder commonly used with heroin by smugglers who sought to raise the drug’s prices and the consumption of the adulterant might result in death. There is currently no known withdrawal for such chemical, unlike heroin which can be treated.

The INCB chief said there were some 10,000 deaths due to the use of Carfentanil in the United States in 2017. The chemical, which is considered much more dangerous than cocaine or heroin, can be absorbed through the skin, which can cause acute failures to the respiratory system.

The authorities are keeping an eye on Carfentanil which might be smuggled into Asia via an online black market using BitCoin or other crypto-currencies.

The INCB has established agreements with postal service providers in many countries on the inspection of suspicious packages using scientific equipment as an attempt to stop the smuggling.

The Asian region has been reportedly prone to the trafficking of methamphetamine.