A BLANKET ban on ‘legal highs’ came into force on Thursday with users facing up to seven years in prison.
From now on, new legislation covering ‘psychoactive substances’, gives West Mercia Police officers the power to stop and search people and vehicles, enter and search premises with a warrant, and to seize and destroy any banned substances.
People are warned that even giving banned drugs to friends could result in supply charges with up to seven years in prison.
The ban will also make new drugs appearing on the market illegal more quickly than before and give police the power to shut down websites trading in these potentially dangerous drugs.
Det Ch Insp Ally Wright said: “The effects of these substances can be devastating, even fatal.
“Users can never be sure of exactly what they contain, the side effects they could have or what long-term damage they could cause.
“We would urge people never to even consider taking them.”
The Psychoactive Substances Act bans the production, supply and importation of any substance intended for human consumption capable of producing a psychoactive effect, but food, alcohol, tobacco, nicotine, caffeine and medical products are excluded.
People who have information about the supply of banned substances are being urged to call 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or by visiting www.crimestoppers-uk.org
Go to www.talktofrank.com for more information about drugs.
