A surge in the use of so-called ‘zombie cigarettes’ — illicit tobacco cigarettes infused with powerful synthetic drugs — is prompting urgent government action in Japan. The dangerous trend has swept urban centers and social media, with young people at the highest risk of addiction and serious health harm.
Japanese police have launched coordinated raids in several cities, seizing large quantities of the illegal cigarettes and arresting multiple dealers. Health officials report a spike in cases of bizarre, zombie-like behavior and severe hospitalizations linked to these designer drugs, which often mimic the effects of potent stimulants or hallucinogens.
Experts warn that the substances found in these cigarettes are extremely potent, unpredictable, and sometimes deadly. The Ministry of Health has issued public warnings and initiated school awareness campaigns, urging teenagers and parents to be vigilant.
In response, the Japanese government is increasing surveillance at known distribution hubs, collaborating with international agencies to stem cross-border trafficking, and reviewing legislation to impose harsher penalties on offenders.
The crisis has brought national attention to youth vulnerability to designer drugs, with calls for robust education and stronger preventive measures within schools and communities.
