Singaporean woman nabbed in Batam with 40 etomidate vape cartridges in underwear

A 21-year-old Singaporean woman was arrested in Batam after Indonesian customs officers discovered approximately 40 vape cartridges containing etomidate concealed in her underwear. The woman was detained upon her arrival from Singapore via the Harbour Bay International Ferry Terminal on September 3. Indonesian media reported that Batam Customs officers were conducting routine passenger profiling when they noticed the woman's unusual walking pattern, leading to a more thorough inspection.

During this inspection, officers found the concealed vape cartridges, which were later tested and confirmed to contain etomidate, a Class II narcotic under Indonesian law. The woman claimed the drugs were intended for her personal use during her stay in Batam, but Indonesian authorities are still investigating the origin of the drugs and her potential connections to an international drug network. Indonesian law applies equally to foreigners and Indonesians involved in drug offenses.

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