During a drug crackdown operation today (17), the Taoyuan Police Department discovered suspected underground nitrous oxide (laughing gas) storage facilities in Zhongli District and Taoyuan District. The Taoyuan City Department of Environmental Protection (TYDEP) dispatched personnel to conduct inspections, with a total of 501 nitrous oxide cylinders seized at the scene, marking the largest illegal nitrous oxide case uncovered in recent years. Nitrous oxide, due to its brief euphoric effects, is often misused as a substitute for drugs. However, inhaling it can lead to oxygen deficiency and respiratory difficulties, posing a risk of death. The Chemicals Administration of the Ministry of Environment announced on October 30, 2020, that nitrous oxide is classified as a Concerned Chemical Substance subject to full control. As the individuals at the scene did not possess the relevant permits, the TYDEP will impose a fine of up to NT$300,000 under the Toxic and Concerned Chemical Substances Control Act, and the nitrous oxide cylinders will be confiscated according to the law.
The Bade Precinct of the Taoyuan Police Department conducted a drug crackdown operation today (April 17). In a warehouse on Wenzhong Road in Zhongli District, a person surnamed Dai was found in possession of a large number of cylinders, unopened balloons, filter cotton, promotional name cards, lighters, and other items for sale. This was suspected to be a nitrous oxide storage and distribution site. After reporting to the TYDEP, a total of 101 cylinders were counted at the scene. Dai admitted that the cylinders contained nitrous oxide but refused to provide further information. Coincidentally, another nitrous oxide storage site was discovered in a remote location near Longshan Street in Taoyuan District. An individual surnamed Chang claimed to possess approximately 400 nitrous oxide cylinders and did not have the relevant permits. No further information was provided.
The TYDEP announced the discovery of suspected nitrous oxide cylinders today (April 17). Following regulations, the seized items will be sent for testing and analysis. If confirmed to contain nitrous oxide, a regulated concerned chemical substance, and if relevant permits are not presented, fines up to NT$300,000 will be imposed in accordance with the law. Additionally, the related cylinders and equipment will be confiscated. The TYDEP will continue to expand its investigation into the flow of these substances based on relevant evidence found at the scene.
The TYDEP urges the public not to purchase gases of unknown origin for inhalation. Laughing gas available in the market is neither food-grade nor medical-grade and lacks quality inspection and control. Overconsumption or misuse can lead to symptoms such as respiratory difficulties, chest tightness, coughing, confusion, damage to the visual system and brain, and acute poisoning, which can result in oxygen deficiency or even death. Moreover, possessing unapproved nitrous oxide can lead to penalties, causing financial and health risks. The TYDEP emphasizes that the irreversible harm caused by such substances far outweighs any temporary pleasure derived from their use.