Arrest highlights dangerous new opioid hitting city streets

In an Australian first, NSW Police have charged a man with allegedly supplying highly potent nitazene-laced vape liquid.

The 20-year-old was arrested last Friday when officers from Strike Force Southminster raided a property at Revesby in Sydney's south-west.

Detectives also found electronics, vape hardware, vials and $7180 in cash.

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Two imitation firearms and an electrical weapon were also seized to undergo further forensic examination.

Strike Force Southminster was set up to investigate the supply of nitazene across Sydney.

Police allege the man was running a sophisticated drug supply network of nitazene in vape liquid vials between March and July.

He has been charged with supplying a prohibited drug in commercial quantity and knowingly dealing with proceeds of crime.

During a court appearance last Saturday, he was refused bail and is due to front court again next month.

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On Monday, a safe that police seized at Revesby was opened and found to contain a further 1.8kg of nitazene, bringing the total amount of nitazene seized throughout the investigation to 2.1kg.

Police will allege in court the man was involved in the sale, preparation and distribution of the vials – marketed as "supercharged" – for profit.

Detective Superintendent John Watson, commander of the NSW Police drug and firearms squad, said the fact these substances are being distributed in vape liquid was deeply concerning.

"Nitazenes are highly addictive, incredibly potent and can be lethal. By lacing vape liquid with these synthetic opioids, suppliers are deliberately creating dependency – hooking users to ensure repeat business. It's calculated, dangerous, and entirely profit-driven.

"This is the first time in Australia someone has been charged with supplying nitazene-laced vape liquid, which demonstrates a disturbing evolution in the illicit drug trade, but our squad is constantly adapting to meet these emerging threats head-on."

NSW Health's chief addiction medicine specialist Hester Wilson said residents should be aware synthetic opioids, such as nitazenes, can be stronger than fentanyl.

"It is important that people recognise the signs of an opioid overdose early and know how to respond.

"Opioid overdose symptoms can include pinpoint pupils, drowsiness, loss of consciousness, slow breathing/snoring or skin turning blue or grey."