Police in ‘laughing gas’ raid on store
OFFICERS SWOOP ON SHOP ‘OPENLY SELLING’ SUBSTANCE
A SHOP has been raided by police following claims it was ‘openly selling’ nitrous oxide.
Officers executed the warrant on Wilmslow Road, in Fallowfield.
Several cardboard boxes containing nitrous oxide canisters – also known as laughing gas – were seized, along with associated paraphernalia.
Photos of the haul were shared on social media by officers, who said that an investigation was underway.
The post read: “Officers from the Fallowfield neighbourhood policing team executed a positive warrant under the Psychoactive Substances Act 2016 following intelligence submissions that a premises on Wilmslow Road are openly selling nitrous oxide and associated paraphernalia to local residents.
“A number of nitrous oxide canisters and associated paraphernalia has been seized and a criminal investigation has commenced.”
It became illegal to supply or import nitrous oxide for human consumption following the introduction of the Psychoactive Substances Act in May 2016.
According to drug advice charity, Frank, when inhaled the gas can make people feel ‘euphoric and relaxed.’
However, it can also cause hallucinations, as well as a risk of death.
There are three legitimate uses of nitrous oxide. They are:
To numb pain during medical procedures such as dental work
In engines to increase their power output
In catering, in whipped cream aerosol cans to prevent the cream going ‘bad,’ and in food packaging to prevent the food from rotting.
Anyone with information about the supply of drugs is asked to contact police on 101.