Batam, July 31 -- The National Narcotics Agency (BNN) has uncovered a drug-smuggling network trafficking vape cartridges containing etomidate from Malaysia into Batam, Riau Islands, following raids at four locations.

BNN Deputy for Eradication Inspector General Aswin Sipayung said the joint operation on Tuesday (July 28) resulted in the arrest of seven suspects and the seizure of hundreds of vape cartridges containing etomidate and other narcotics.

"The vape cartridges containing etomidate and etomidate liquid in bottles are suspected to have been transported from Malaysia to Batam via an illegal sea route. The route was chosen to evade inspections and minimize the risk of detection by law enforcement," Sipayung explained on Friday.

Th...