CHIAYI, TAIWAN — To strengthen international students' understanding of Taiwanese law and health, the Chiayi District Prosecutors Office and the Chiayi County Drug Abuse Prevention Center teamed up today (the 24th) for a specialized anti-drug seminar at Wufeng University of Technology.

Led by Probation Officer Lu Hao-chuan and health experts, the session targeted Vietnamese students, providing an in-depth analysis of the dangers of Etomidate (commonly known as "Zombie Vape Bullets") and electronic cigarettes. Combining legal expertise with medical insights, the event saw high levels of engagement and interaction.

International Student Enrollment Hits Record High; Vietnamese Students Rank First

According to the latest Ministry of Education statistics for the 2025 academic year, the number of international students in Taiwan's tertiary institutions has surpassed 140,000, setting a new record. Students from New Southbound Policy countries account for approximately 82,000 (60%), with Vietnamese students exceeding 40,000, the largest group by nationality.

Probation Officer Lu noted that as the international student population grows, prosecutors and health authorities must take proactive measures to help these students identify legal boundaries and avoid the traps of emerging drugs.

Two-Pronged Approach: Debunking the "Zombie Vape" Trap

The seminar focused heavily on vapes illegally laced with Etomidate, a medical anesthetic. The Chiayi County Drug Abuse Prevention Center warned that criminals often mix unknown chemicals into e-liquids, which can lead to:

• Confusion and loss of consciousness.

• Respiratory failure.

• Severe long-term health damage.

From a legal perspective, Lu explained that Etomidate is now classified as a Category 2 Narcotic. Possession, use, distribution, or trafficking carries criminal liability. For international students, any drug-related offense could result in immediate deportation, destroying years of academic effort.

Clearing Myths Through Interactive Consultation

The atmosphere was lively, with students frequently asking questions about "how to refuse temptation in social settings" and "penalties regarding e-cigarettes." Officials used real-life case studies and visual aids to help students recognize the diverse and deceptive packaging used for emerging drugs.

Inter-Ministerial Collaboration Builds a Strong Defense

Chief Prosecutor Tsai Tzung-Shi of the Chiayi District Prosecutors Office stated that inter-professional cooperation between the administration and the judiciary effectively bridges information gaps and reduces legal risks for international students.

Wufeng University expressed gratitude for the initiative, emphasizing that they will continue to deepen this partnership and refine campus safety reporting mechanisms to ensure every student can pursue their studies in a healthy, drug-free environment.