KUALA LUMPUR: There is no such thing as "magic mushroom" in vape liquids, despite claims circulating on social media, says Comm Datuk Hussein Omar Khan.
The newly appointed Narcotics Crime Investigation Department (NCID) director stated that lab tests conducted by the Chemistry Department on seized vape liquids allegedly containing hallucinogenic mushrooms showed no presence of such substances.
"There is no such drug as ‘magic mushroom’ in vape liquids. This has been confirmed by the Chemistry Department after analysing the seized materials," he said in a statement on Thursday (July 24).
He clarified that claims of dried mushrooms or hallucinogenic natural drops being used in vape products were inaccurate and likely part of a manipulation tactic by drug distributors.
"Distributors are deliberately branding synthetic substances as ‘magic mushrooms’ to attract young users, especially school students," he said.
Although cases involving students remain isolated, Comm Hussein said the trend is causing serious concern due to its potential impact on youth.
"To date, no official evidence has been found of dried mushrooms or drugs being mixed into chocolates or candies as widely alleged," he added.
Comm Hussein said the NCID has launched a nationwide intelligence operation to investigate the growing abuse of vapes laced with illicit substances among teenagers.
"From 2024 to March 2025, we recorded 64 cases of vape liquid seizures. In just the first three months of this year, we have already recorded 32 cases, indicating a significant rise in monthly averages," he said.
Lab analyses of the seized liquids revealed the presence of illegal substances, particularly synthetic cannabinoids like MDMB-4en-PINACA and its analogues.
"This modus operandi shows that psychoactive substances are being infused into vape liquids as a delivery method for drugs.
"Other seized liquids also contained stimulant drugs such as methamphetamine and MDMA, reflecting new forms of abuse through electronic devices," he said.
Comm Hussein stressed that the misuse of vape devices as a medium for drug delivery is a growing reality that needs urgent intervention.
"We urge the public to rely on verified information from official sources such as the police, the National Anti-Drugs Agency (AADK), or the Health Ministry, and to avoid spreading unverified viral content that could cause unnecessary panic.
"There is a clear need to include education on the dangers of synthetic drug-laced vapes in school syllabi and to intensify awareness campaigns, especially among students," he said.
"Parents should closely monitor their children’s activities and belongings, and have open discussions about the risks of vaping and drug use," he said.
He also backed Deputy Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Ayob Khan Mydin Pitchay’s recent call to ban the sale of vape products at the state level as part of broader efforts to curb drug abuse through such devices.
He noted that the government is currently refining regulatory mechanisms for vape products, with the Health Ministry and enforcement agencies considering a stricter licensing framework.
"This includes laboratory testing of vape liquids and tighter controls on sales to minors.
"The police are also intensifying surveillance of online vape sales involving illicit substances.
"If anyone has information regarding drug abuse or distribution, we urge them to contact the NCID hotline at 012-208 7222," he added.
