KOH PHANGAN, Thailand – On August 22, the Central Investigation Bureau (CIB) raided a shop selling laughing gas (nitrous oxide) during the Full Moon Party on Haad Rin Beach, Koh Phangan, Surat Thani Province. The suspect, 29-year-old Rangsiman, was arrested after being caught illegally selling nitrous oxide to tourists.
CIB officers, in collaboration with local authorities, were conducting inspections in the Full Moon Party area when they discovered the illegal activity at a two-story establishment located along the beach where the party was being held. Upon reaching the second floor, officers found several tourists holding balloons. A thorough search revealed two blue gas cylinders containing nitrous oxide, commonly known as laughing gas, along with numerous used balloons scattered on the floor and tables. Two promotional signs advertising the sale of nitrous oxide were also discovered, with messages such as “LAUGHING GAS BALLOON, TRY NOT TO LAUGH” and “BALLOON 200 B FOR ONE TRIP” displayed near the gas cylinders.
Rangsiman was immediately arrested and taken into custody by the Koh Phangan Police Station for further legal proceedings. During questioning, he confessed to all charges and admitted that he had been selling laughing gas to tourists attending the Full Moon Party because of the high profit margin. He mentioned that recent police crackdowns had caused the price of the gas to rise sharply.
The CIB has issued a public warning to parents, urging them to educate their children about the dangers of nitrous oxide. Despite not being classified as a narcotic, nitrous oxide can have harmful effects on the nervous system. The gas is often sold illegally in some entertainment venues and used irresponsibly by customers.
Authorities cautioned young people to avoid using laughing gas due to its severe health risks. Excessive or prolonged inhalation can disrupt the body’s use of vitamin B12, potentially leading to nerve damage, muscle weakness, and in extreme cases, death. Other symptoms of nitrous oxide abuse include dizziness, nausea, vomiting, peripheral nerve damage, numbness in the fingers and toes, and unconsciousness. (TNA)
