(Ecofin Agency) - The Ivorian government announced the suspension of the import of alcoholic energy drinks on its territory. The “precautionary” measure will remain in effect until December 31, a statement from the Ministries of Trade and Health reported.

According to the document, the decision is aimed at cracking down on the consumption of a drug mix called "Kadhafi", which combines alcoholic energy drinks and tramadol tablets and has become increasingly popular among thrill-seeking young people.

In a joint statement on October 23, the Ivorian Ministry of Budget and the Customs Department urged all importers and exporters to strictly comply with this ban. Violations will be subject to penalties.

This cheap new mixture has been wreaking havoc among Ivorian youth for several months now. It causes dangerous side effects, even death. In recent months, consumption of the drug has exploded, as it has been widely used as a "trend" on social media, mainly on TikTok.

Consequently, Ivorian authorities have launched a full-scale hunt for the drug in the middle of the new school year. Since July, police say they have arrested around a hundred people. According to reports, nearly five tons of drugs have been seized, including a large cargo of "Kadhafi". A factory has also been dismantled in the commune of Abobo, we learned.