The Economic Crime Suppression Division (ECD) cracked down on a hidden nitrous oxide supply, seizing 204 canisters. Officials uncovered savvy dealers filling balloons with the gas to sell to nightlife visitors at entertainment venues. Authorities warned that frequent inhalation could be fatal.
On 9 Jan 2026 GMT+7, Pol. Maj. Gen. Tatphoom Jaruprat, Commander of the ECD, ordered Pol. Col. Naruphon Karuna, Superintendent of Division 2, Pol. Lt. Col. Sathaporn Purahong, Deputy Superintendent, and Pol. Insp. Aphinan Photmonpiti, Investigator, to arrest Ms. Dahwan, 53, and Mr. Vikran, 32, on charges of concealing, selling, transporting, buying, pawning, or receiving goods known to have been imported illegally without customs clearance. Ms. Dahwan was arrested at a shophouse in Soi Chan 40, Chan Road, Phra Khanong Subdistrict, Bang Kho Laem District, Bangkok, with 106 nitrous oxide canisters seized. Mr. Vikran was arrested at an apartment in Soi Intamara 9, Samsen Nai Subdistrict, Phaya Thai District, Bangkok, with 98 canisters confiscated. In total, 204 canisters valued at over 400,000 baht were seized from both locations.
This arrest followed findings that individuals were illegally using nitrous oxide, or laughing gas, filling balloons to sell to tourists at entertainment venues. The gas is inhaled to create a euphoric, dizzy effect. It is easily available and inexpensive but directly harms the nervous system and brain, potentially endangering life. After investigation, authorities uncovered illegal imports of nitrous oxide originating abroad, hidden at various locations before being distributed online. Delivery riders were hired to distribute the product across Bangkok. Police executed search warrants from the Central Excise Court to conduct raids and make arrests.
During interrogation, both suspects confessed. They were taken to Division 2 of the ECD for legal proceedings.
Pol. Col. Naruphon Karuna, Superintendent of Division 2, warned that misuse of this gas by filling balloons and inhaling it for recreational effects can be deadly. Nitrous oxide, when inhaled in large amounts, displaces oxygen in the lungs and central nervous system, causing nausea, vomiting, dizziness, and loss of control over breathing and organ coordination. This may lead to falls, injuries, and loss of consciousness. Prolonged frequent inhalation can cause peripheral nerve degeneration, numbness, muscle weakness, and loss of sensation in fingers and toes. In severe cases, it can result in death.
