An alarming new drug, nitazene, is making its way through Czech online platforms.

Sourced from China, this substance—more dangerous than fentanyl—has already captured the attention of customs officials.

In recent weeks, online spaces have seen a surge of advertisements promoting nitazene worldwide. Customs officers in the Czech Republic have intercepted shipments linked to the drug, prompting concerns over its spread.

Investigative efforts by Bellingcat and coverage on investigace.cz have shed light on the issue. Their research uncovered numerous nearly identical ads. One such message read:

“Hello, friend. Our advantage is safe and fast delivery, ensuring your products arrive on time and in pristine condition. Our efficient process balances security and speed for a seamless experience every time.”

These ads typically include contact details via Telegram or Signal and display an image of a white to grayish powder.

In the Czech Republic, the drug has been promoted on eight different websites—including Hyperinzerce, Chov zvířat, Zbavsetoho, and primabazar.cz—although inquiries have so far gone unanswered.

More Toxic Than Fentanyl

Developed around sixty years ago as an alternative to morphine, nitazene was never approved for medical use. In stark contrast to fentanyl, nitazene compounds are estimated to be ten to forty times more toxic; a mere one-milligram dose can prove fatal.

Despite these risks, nitazene has found its way into the illegal market. Evidence suggests that Chinese manufacturers are behind the recent wave of promotions. Czech customs have documented several related cases.

Lucie Šmoldasová, spokesperson for the National Anti-Drug Center, commented:

“Current criminal law data in the Czech Republic do not reflect widespread nitazene production. However, we cannot rule out targeted online shipments to specific users. Moreover, the drug’s presence is not yet apparent when comparing fatal and non-fatal intoxications.”

She noted that increased instances of nitazene have been reported in Belgium, France, Germany, Sweden, Finland, Latvia, and Great Britain.

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