PRESS RELEASE:
The administration has issued a warning to the public about the serious legal and health risks associated with the unauthorized possession of cyanide. This announcement comes in light of a recent violent incident in the city where cyanide was found at the scene.
Kanika Aunjit , Deputy Government Spokesperson, highlighted the Ministry of Justice’s warning. She explained that possessing cyanide without proper authorization carries both imprisonment and fines.
Kanika addressed the recent incident and explained that cyanide is commonly found in everyday items such as certain fruits and grains, as well as in industrial uses like nylon production and pesticides. Despite its common presence, cyanide is highly toxic, affecting the central nervous system, liver, kidneys, and heart even in small amounts.
Kanika emphasized the severity of symptoms based on the amount, duration, and method of exposure. This includes ingestion, inhalation, or skin absorption. High doses can cause immediate symptoms such as headache, palpitations, flushed skin, difficulty breathing, seizures, unconsciousness, and cardiac arrest within 10 minutes. Prolonged exposure to smaller amounts can lead to chronic symptoms like headaches, drowsiness, nausea, and respiratory issues.
The government, through the Ministry of Justice, reminded the public that cyanide is classified as a type-3 hazardous substance under the 1992 Hazardous Substance Act and its amendments. Unauthorized production, import, export, or possession of type-3 hazardous substances is punishable by up to 2 years in prison, a fine of up to 200,000 baht, or both.
The preceding is a press release from the Thai Government PR Department.
