Independent charity Crimestoppers is today launching an appeal for information on the growing issue of drugs in North Wales, specifically psychoactive substances such as Mamba and Spice.
The charity is keen to hear from members of the public who have any information on individuals who are manufacturing, importing or supplying these drugs to people in the area, some of which are either homeless or very vulnerable.
Previously known to some as ‘legal highs’, a number of these substances like Mamba and Spice can have serious side effects such as paranoia, psychosis, seizures and have even been linked to deaths in some parts of the UK.
According to the UK Drugs Advisory Council, many have been untested, so all the risks of taking them either along with or in combination with other substances are not yet known.
Those taking the drugs, are not only harming themselves and making them susceptible to being victims of crime, but their behaviour can alter, causing them to be violent, which can put the local community at risk.
The charity is offering a reward of up to £1,000 for information that leads to an arrest and charge of those supplying psychoactive substances in the area.
Gary Murray, North Wales Regional Manager for Wales, said: “These substances are relatively new on the streets, so information is hard to come by as to who is producing and supplying them.
“We understand there is a stigma attached to ‘grassing’ on people, but these substances are dangerous, to the individuals taking them and to the community around them.
“We’re asking for people to contact us anonymously, safe in the knowledge nobody will know you have done so, to tell us who is infesting the streets with these drugs, so we can help get them removed and help keep our streets clean.”
If you have any information who might be supplying these substances, please contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or through our Anonymous Online Form at Crimestoppers-uk.org.
Help keep news FREE for our readers
Supporting your local community newspaper/online news outlet is crucial now more than ever. If you believe in independent journalism, then consider making a valuable contribution by making a one-time or monthly donation. We operate in rural areas where providing unbiased news can be challenging. Read More About Supporting The West Wales Chronicle
