NSW Police have arrested and charged a 20-year-old man in a national first, alleging he supplied vape liquid laced with the deadly synthetic opioid nitazene, a substance far stronger than fentanyl.
The arrest is the result of Strike Force Southminster, which was launched by the Drug & Firearms Squad to investigate the supply of nitazenes across Sydney.
Following a search warrant at a Revesby address on Friday, 1 August, detectives seized electronics, vape hardware, vials, $7180 in cash, two imitation firearms, and an electrical weapon. A safe located during the raid was later opened to reveal 1.8 kilograms of nitazene, bringing the total seizure to 2.1 kilograms.
The man was arrested at Liverpool Police Station and charged with supply of a prohibited drug (commercial quantity) and dealing with proceeds of crime. He was refused bail and will reappear in Burwood Local Court on 24 September 2025.
Police allege the man was running a sophisticated drug distribution operation, marketing the vials as “supercharged” to create dependency and drive repeat sales.
“This is the first time in Australia someone has been charged with supplying nitazene-laced vape liquid,” said Detective Superintendent John Watson. “It shows how the illicit drug market is evolving, and it’s deeply concerning. These are highly potent, addictive, and potentially lethal substances.”
He warned that users of illicit vapes are unknowingly exposing themselves to unknown and dangerous chemicals: “You could be inhaling something far worse than nicotine—like nitazenes.”
Health authorities urge extreme caution
NSW Health has echoed the warning, urging the public to avoid all illicit vape products and remain alert to the signs of opioid overdose.
Dr Hester Wilson, NSW Health’s Chief Addiction Medicine Specialist, said nitazenes can be significantly more powerful than fentanyl and pose a serious risk to public safety.
“People must know how to recognise the signs of an opioid overdose: pinpoint pupils, unconsciousness, slow breathing, or skin turning blue or grey,” Dr Wilson said. “If someone shows these symptoms, administer naloxone if available and call Triple Zero (000) immediately.”
NSW Health is urging anyone who uses recreational drugs to carry naloxone, a life-saving medication available for free from community pharmacies, needle exchange programs, and other health services.
If you’ve bought or used a suspicious vape product, stop immediately and seek medical advice. Report it to Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.