Scam in MyanmarFood and drink
Suspected opiate mixture sold as alcohol in Myanmar
How it works
Some drinks served as alcohol are suspected to contain an opiate mixture rather than a fermented drink. The contents are not confirmed.
Warning signs
- You are offered a local alcoholic drink with unclear ingredients.
- The drink is described as alcohol that does not burn when lit.
How to avoid it
- Decline drinks with unknown contents.
- Choose sealed, clearly labelled drinks.
- Do not use flame tests to judge whether a drink is safe.
If it happens to you
Stop drinking it. If you feel unusually sleepy, confused or unwell, seek urgent medical help and stay with someone you trust.
- Move to a safe place. Do not chase anyone or argue with a threatening group.
- If a cash transaction is still underway, stop and check the agreed price, note values and total payout. Ask calmly for the mistake to be corrected.
- Block stolen cards and secure affected accounts. Use your bank's official app or contact details.
- Save receipts, tickets, messages and transaction details. Write down the time, location and what happened.
- Report theft, robbery or fraud to police. Ask for a written report or reference number if available.
- Contact your insurer. If your passport was stolen, contact your embassy or consulate. Seek medical help promptly after injury or a suspect drink.
What travellers report
Posts about this scam on other sites, summarised in our words. Open one to read the original.
Questions
What is the suspected opiate mixture sold as alcohol scam in Myanmar?
Some drinks served as alcohol are suspected to contain an opiate mixture rather than a fermented drink. The contents are not confirmed.
How can I spot it early?
You are offered a local alcoholic drink with unclear ingredients. The drink is described as alcohol that does not burn when lit.
How do I avoid suspected opiate mixture sold as alcohol in Myanmar?
Decline drinks with unknown contents. Choose sealed, clearly labelled drinks. Do not use flame tests to judge whether a drink is safe.
What should I do if it happens to me?
Stop drinking it. If you feel unusually sleepy, confused or unwell, seek urgent medical help and stay with someone you trust.
Where in Myanmar does this happen?
Far northern states
How common is this scam in Myanmar?
Occasional. Tourists can face money-changing tricks, inflated transport prices and persistent sellers in Myanmar. Petty theft is also a concern, though the material describes reported crime levels as low. Check cash carefully and agree on prices before paying.
Who can I report it to?
Local police: report theft, robbery or fraud at a police station. Bring any receipts, transaction records and a written account. Ask for a report or reference number if available. Card issuer or bank: use the bank's official app, website or the number on your card to block a stolen card and report unauthorised transactions. Embassy or consulate: contact your country's embassy or consulate through its official contact channels if your passport is stolen or you need consular help. Travel insurer: use the insurer's claims or assistance service. Keep police records, receipts and evidence of the loss. Business or transport operator: raise a disputed payment, missing change or questionable ticket with the business or operator. Show the receipt and agreed terms, if you have them.
Reviewed by @snuck