Drug retailer Funcaps criticized for aggressive marketing amid fatal overdoses
Families of victims have criticized Funcaps, the Dutch online drug store linked to multiple deaths, for using aggressive marketing tactics that kept users hooked, NU.nl reported. The company offered bonus points for repeat orders, sent unsolicited samples of other substances, and delivered packages discreetly, often labeled “for office supplies,” making it difficult for families to monitor drug use.
Dutch authorities are investigating 49 deaths connected to pharmaceuticals purchased from Funcaps, the Public Prosecution Service (OM) revealed Monday. Of these, 27 deaths have been firmly linked to the company, while 22 more remain under investigation. “Among the deceased were young adults and minors with their lives ahead of them, some suicidal, some only trying to feel better,” prosecutors said during a hearing. The two Dutch owners also face prosecution in Belgium and are scheduled to appear in the Antwerp court of appeal on January 21, 2026.
Rosalie Hofman’s 24-year-old son, Joshua, who had ADHD, became addicted to drugs purchased through Funcaps during the COVID-19 lockdowns and died of an overdose last year despite multiple rehabilitation attempts. “It starts with something small, and then you can’t get away from it,” Rosalie said.
Other users reported receiving items such as snuff boards, straws, and festival fans alongside substances labeled “not for human consumption.” Marketing emails even promoted discounts on drugs before they became illegal, including 3-CMC, a variant of an already-banned substance.
Families argue that the ease of ordering and low prices undermined efforts to combat addiction. Rosalie and her husband, Jeff, have written a book about Joshua’s struggle to raise awareness of the dangers of online drug sales.
