Unmasking the Yaba ‘madness drug’

The Yaba madness drug, native to Thailand and Burma, has been making headlines recently after Italian police seized 31,000 pills of the substance. But what exactly is Yaba, and why is it called the “madness drug”?

What is Yaba?

Yaba, also known as the madness drug or Nazi speed, is a combination of stimulants, primarily caffeine and methamphetamine (crystal meth). The drug comes in tablet form, typically red in color with the letters WY imprinted on it. Users often smoke the drug off tinfoil, although it can also be ingested orally or crushed and snorted.

History of Yaba

Methamphetamine, a key component of Yaba, has a long history dating back to World War II, where it was used to keep soldiers awake. It was also an ingredient in various products, such as cough syrup, and was used as a weight loss supplement. However, its original intent was eventually overshadowed by its addictive and destructive nature, leading to its ban in 1970 by the Controlled Substance Act.

Yaba in Thailand

It is the most widely used and distributed drug in Thailand, despite the harsh punishments associated with its use. The drug is classified as a Category 1 substance, carrying penalties of up to 20 years in prison or hefty fines. Those found in possession of more than 20 grams of Yaba face lifetime prison sentences or even the death penalty.

Production and Distribution

Although Thailand is a major distributor of Yaba, Myanmar is one of the largest producers of the drug. The war on drugs has been a long and complicated issue for Myanmar, with the drug also making its way to other countries, including the United States.

Recent Developments

In recent years, Thai authorities have made significant efforts to combat the spread of Yaba. In April 2017, police intercepted one million pills in Chiang Rai, northern Thailand, while also confiscating 112,837 pills in Bangkok. The Global Commission on Drug Policy has recognized Thailand’s efforts, choosing the country as a focus for new initiatives aimed at reducing drug use and decriminalizing drug offenses.

The Future of Yaba

As Thailand continues to grapple with the issue, the country is shifting towards a more progressive approach. The new policy aims to decriminalize drugs, end capital punishment for drug-related cases, and provide alternatives to incarceration. Additionally, the government plans to make rehabilitation more accessible and increase efforts to reduce drug use.

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