January 28, 2026 | 03:03 pm
TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - The National Narcotics Agency (BNN) has observed a surge in the abuse of nitrous oxide (N2O), commonly known as laughing gas. This compound is frequently misused for recreational purposes, despite carrying significant health risks.
BNN Chief Suyudi Ario Seto explained that the primary modus operandi for this abuse involves selling the gas in small cylinders originally intended for culinary use. "The [target] market consists of teenagers and individuals seeking an intoxicating high," Suyudi stated when contacted via WhatsApp on Wednesday, January 28, 2026.
According to Suyudi, inhaling laughing gas can induce short-term euphoria and relaxation. Users often become easily amused, leading the public to refer to the substance as laughing gas.
He noted that the use of laughing gas has evolved into a lifestyle trend among certain youth circles. In addition to small canisters, some suppliers now offer larger cylinders that facilitate group abuse.
The former Chief of the Banten Regional Police clarified that laughing gas remains legal and is not classified as a narcotic under current law. Consequently, BNN lacks the authority to take enforcement action, even though the substance is frequently misused and poses serious dangers. However, he pointed out a growing global trend toward tightening regulations on the recreational use of the gas.
Suyudi warned that excessive consumption over a short period can lead to a vitamin B12 deficiency, risking permanent nerve damage. Furthermore, the gas can displace oxygen in the lungs, causing a fatal state of oxygen deprivation. "Excessive intake within a short timeframe can trigger cardiac arrest or sudden death," he cautioned.
Read: 11 Trains Temporarily Halted After Earthquake in Pacitan, East Java
Click here to get the latest news updates from Tempo on Google News
Vape Liquids Become New Gateway for Drugs in South Sumatra
17 hari lalu
The use of vape has become a new gateway for drug crimes. BNN declares a state of narcotics emergency in South Sumatra, Indonesia.
50 People Die Daily from Drug Abuse in Indonesia, BNN Reports
5 November 2025
BNN has recorded that 50 people die each day in Indonesia due to drug abuse, totaling around 18,000 deaths annually.
Indonesia Moves to Classify Etomidate, Ketamine as Narcotics
5 November 2025
Indonesian authorities are concerned about the use of etomidate, a dangerous substance that has not yet been classified as a narcotic.
Aceh Police Establish 94 Drug-Free Villages
16 Oktober 2025
Indonesia's Aceh Regional Police has established 94 drug-free villages (KBDN) across all regencies and cities.
BPOM to Crack Down on Vape Products Found Containing Ketamine
27 Agustus 2025
BPOM's statement came after the National Narcotics Agency (BNN) revealed the discovery of counterfeit ketamine in vape pods.
Indonesia Will Not Follow Singapore's Move to Ban Vape, Says BNN Head
22 Agustus 2025
The Indonesian National Narcotics Board (BNN) responds to Singapore's ban on vape and its comparison to drugs.
BNN Chief Bans Officers from Arresting Drug Users, Including Celebrities
16 Juli 2025
According to the Head of Indonesia's National Narcotics Agency (BNN), Marthinus Hukom, drug users are considered victims.
BNN: Drug Incineration Smoke Harmless Due to Advanced Process
2 Juli 2025
BNN top official said that the smoke coming out of the narcotics destruction facility does not contain any traces of narcotics.
BNN Reports 3.3mn Drug Users in Indonesia, Warns of Rising Global Trend
27 Juni 2025
BNN Chief Commissioner General Marthinus Hukom stated that the number of drug users worldwide has reached 296 million
Indonesian Authorities Arrest 285 Drug Smuggling Suspects in Q2 of 2025
24 Juni 2025
BNN (National Narcotics Agency) continues to target drug suppliers outside the country.
