Space oil to be classified as dangerous drug next month: Chris Tang

Secretary for Security Chris Tang Ping-keung revealed that a subsidiary legislation amendment to classify space oil as a dangerous drug is expected to take effect on February 14.

Those caught selling etomidate -- the main ingredient of "space oil drug" -- could face severe penalties, including fines of up to HK$5 million and the possibility of life imprisonment.

The use of space oil among teenagers has surged since the first half of 2024, with three suspected fatal incidents reported.

A total of 174 individuals have been reported using space oil in the first three quarters of 2024, with 139 of them under the age of 21, marking a dramatic rise from only two cases in the same period in the previous year.

Meanwhile, authorities had recorded 144 prosecution cases and arrested 121 individuals from January to November last year, seizing 10.9 kilograms of suspected space oil, a 17 times increase compared to two years ago.

Etomidate is classified as a Part 1 poison under the Pharmacy and Poisons Regulation. Any person who possesses poison included in Part 1 of the Poisons List other than in accordance with provisions could face a fine of up to HK$100,000 and imprisonment for two years.