Taipei Worker Arrested for Drugged Driving; Police Seize Drug Vapes and Air Gun

According to a report by Central News Agency (CNA), a man in his 30s, identified as Mr. Wu, a blue-collar worker from Taipei, was driving through Nangang District when patrol officers noticed he was not wearing a seatbelt and appeared dazed. He was stopped for inspection and tested positive for drug use. Police discovered 10 used etomidate vape cartridges classified as a Category 2 controlled substance, along with one air gun, a magazine, a gas canister, and a pack of steel pellets in his vehicle. The case has been referred for prosecution.

The Nangang Police Substation under the Taipei City Police Department stated that during late May, officers patrolling the Jingmao 2nd Road area observed a driver not wearing a seatbelt and signaled him to stop. During questioning, Mr. Wu appeared nervous, avoided eye contact, and gave inconsistent answers, raising suspicion.

Additionally, a strange odor was detected inside the vehicle. With consent, officers searched the car and found the used etomidate vape cartridges. On-site rapid drug testing returned positive results. Further search revealed an air gun, one magazine, one gas cylinder, and a pack of steel balls.

Mr. Wu claimed he mistakenly believed the vapes contained no illegal substances and had used them at a friend’s house before heading to work. He also stated the air gun was purchased 6 to 7 years ago for recreational survival games and had been left in the car since.

After investigation, forensic analysis showed the air gun did not meet the threshold for violation under the Firearms and Ammunition Control Act. However, it still violated the Social Order Maintenance Act and was referred for administrative penalty. Possession of the Category 2 controlled substance etomidate vape cartridges led to prosecution under the Anti-Drug Abuse and Control Act at Shilin District Prosecutors Office. (Edited by Chang Ya-ching) 1150615