Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Officials are cracking down on vendors in Bangkok’s main backpacker district who sell cheap balloons filled with doses of nitrous oxide, or laughing gas, to tourists.
Eight vendors have been arrested since police first noticed the trend a few weeks ago along Khao San Road, a pedestrian street lined with bars and cheap hotels.
Each dose sells for about 130 baht, or £2.60.
Police said the sale of drug-filled balloons started at popular beaches, such as Koh Samui, Pattaya and Koh Pagnan — an island known for "full moon" parties fueled by drugs and alcohol.
Police are trying to curb sales of the drug-filled balloons in the capital before it gains wider popularity.
Illicit sales of nitrous oxide could cause harmful side effects to users and give the country a negative image, he said.
Those arrested face up to five years in prison and a £190 fine for selling medicine without authorization.
AP
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments