60 Arrested in Pingtung Over Sale and Use of Illicit Drugs at Popular Eatery
A major drug bust in Pingtung County resulted in the arrest of 60 individuals suspected of using and distributing illicit drugs at a popular local eatery. The raid took place in the early hours of November 26 and was conducted by a joint task force of law enforcement officers from Kaohsiung and Pingtung, according to a news conference held by Kaohsiung police on Tuesday.
Among those arrested were customers, employees, and bar girls at the venue, which had been under investigation for several months. The raid, which was triggered by intelligence gathered from prior investigations into similar drug activities at other locations, uncovered a significant amount of narcotics.
Drugs Seized During Raid
During the raid, police seized large quantities of illicit substances, including a bottle of etomidate (a category II drug), 330 packets of cathinone (a category III narcotic), and three packets of ketamine, another category III drug. Additionally, 14 ketamine-laced cigarettes were discovered along with NT$480,000 in cash, believed to be proceeds from drug sales.
These drugs were found hidden in various locations, including lockers and the bar girls’ lounge, indicating an organized effort to conceal the illegal activities.
Arrests and Charges
A total of 60 individuals were arrested, including 34 Taiwanese citizens, 9 Chinese nationals, and 17 Vietnamese nationals, of which 5 were undocumented migrant workers. The arrested individuals face charges related to the Narcotics Hazard Prevention Act.
Among those arrested were key figures responsible for the operation of the eatery, including a 41-year-old woman named Su, who managed the business, and a 32-year-old hostess named Huang. Also arrested were two other female employees and a 43-year-old man named Hsieh, who are all currently under investigation by the Pingtung District Prosecutors Office.
Background of the Operation
The investigation into the eatery was initiated by Kaohsiung police after discovering drug activities at similar venues where customers were accompanied by bar girls. After months of surveillance, law enforcement secured a search warrant and executed the raid.
The successful operation highlights the ongoing efforts of Taiwanese authorities to combat the rising issues of drug use and drug trafficking in public venues, particularly those involving entertainment businesses.
Details of the Raid and Seizures
| Item Seized | Quantity | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Etomidate (Category II Drug) | 1 bottle | A strong anesthetic used illegally in drug abuse |
| Cathinone (Category III Narcotic) | 330 packets | A stimulant related to synthetic drugs like methamphetamine |
| Ketamine (Category III Narcotic) | 3 packets | A dissociative anesthetic often abused recreationally |
| Ketamine-laced Cigarettes | 14 cigarettes | Smuggled cigarettes laced with ketamine |
| Cash | NT$480,000 | Presumed drug trafficking proceeds |
Ongoing Investigations and Legal Consequences
While the initial raid was successful, the investigation is ongoing, and authorities are expected to press further charges as they continue to gather evidence. The Pingtung District Prosecutors Office will decide the legal fate of the suspects arrested in the raid.
Authorities have emphasized the need for further vigilance against illegal drug use and trafficking, especially in entertainment venues. The police have also warned businesses that are involved in such illicit activities, stressing that they will face strict penalties.
FAQs About the Pingtung Drug Bust
1. What prompted the raid in Pingtung?
The raid was carried out after Kaohsiung police monitored the venue over several months. Intelligence gathered during other drug-related investigations led them to suspect drug use and distribution at the eatery.
2. What drugs were found during the raid?
Police seized etomidate, cathinone, ketamine, and ketamine-laced cigarettes. These drugs are known for their illegal use and trafficking in Taiwan.
3. How many people were arrested during the raid?
A total of 60 individuals were arrested, including 34 Taiwanese, 9 Chinese nationals, and 17 Vietnamese, with 5 undocumented migrant workers among them.
4. What are the charges faced by the arrested individuals?
The arrested individuals are charged under the Narcotics Hazard Prevention Act, which deals with the illegal use and distribution of drugs.
5. What is the status of the investigation?
The investigation is ongoing, with further legal proceedings being handled by the Pingtung District Prosecutors Office. More arrests or charges may be expected as evidence is gathered.
