Menu
18/01/2007
Crystal meth reclassified as Class A Drug
The government has moved to reclassify Crystal meth as a Class A drug.
Users of crystal meth, a stimulant which has been connected with dance culture, will face up to seven years in jail and an unlimited fine. Dealers could face life in prison.
Use of crystal meth can quickly become addicted to the drug, which gives a high similar in effects to crack cocaine, but when smoked or injected its effects are even worse.
It can quickly become addictive and lead to depression, paranoia, violent behaviour, kidney failure and internal bleeding.
Crystal meth is now classed among the most harmful drugs. Those who take it can face up to seven years in jail for possession, and up to life for those who manufacture or deal it.
As a Class A drug, it is now the focus of more intelligence led operations to thwart supply and bust laboratories.
Also known as ice, Nazi crank and yabba, crystal meth smoking can also ruin a person's appearance through "meth mouth", which is characterised by chronic rotting of teeth and gums.
Home Office Minister Vernon Coaker said: "Crystal meth is a very harmful drug but fortunately it is not widespread in the UK. However, we know from the experiences of other countries that it has the potential to ruin the lives of individuals and their families. We cannot afford to be complacent.
"Reclassification is a precautionary measure that helps to ensure crystal meth does not gain a foothold in the UK. It becomes a higher priority for police and the Serious Organised Crime Agency. I believe tougher penalties send a strong message that dealing and making crystal meth will not be tolerated.
"I am fully committed to the drugs strategy that is reducing the harm caused by drugs and which has put 181,000 people into drug treatment. This, combined with tough penalties, has helped to contribute to a 16 per cent fall in acquisitive crime over two years up to March 2006."
(SP/EF)
Users of crystal meth, a stimulant which has been connected with dance culture, will face up to seven years in jail and an unlimited fine. Dealers could face life in prison.
Use of crystal meth can quickly become addicted to the drug, which gives a high similar in effects to crack cocaine, but when smoked or injected its effects are even worse.
It can quickly become addictive and lead to depression, paranoia, violent behaviour, kidney failure and internal bleeding.
Crystal meth is now classed among the most harmful drugs. Those who take it can face up to seven years in jail for possession, and up to life for those who manufacture or deal it.
As a Class A drug, it is now the focus of more intelligence led operations to thwart supply and bust laboratories.
Also known as ice, Nazi crank and yabba, crystal meth smoking can also ruin a person's appearance through "meth mouth", which is characterised by chronic rotting of teeth and gums.
Home Office Minister Vernon Coaker said: "Crystal meth is a very harmful drug but fortunately it is not widespread in the UK. However, we know from the experiences of other countries that it has the potential to ruin the lives of individuals and their families. We cannot afford to be complacent.
"Reclassification is a precautionary measure that helps to ensure crystal meth does not gain a foothold in the UK. It becomes a higher priority for police and the Serious Organised Crime Agency. I believe tougher penalties send a strong message that dealing and making crystal meth will not be tolerated.
"I am fully committed to the drugs strategy that is reducing the harm caused by drugs and which has put 181,000 people into drug treatment. This, combined with tough penalties, has helped to contribute to a 16 per cent fall in acquisitive crime over two years up to March 2006."
(SP/EF)
Related UK National News Stories
Click here for the latest headlines.
13 October 2006
Move to reclassify crystal meth as Class A drug
Crystal methamphetamine could be reclassified as a Class A drug, following moves to increase the penalties for taking the highly addictive substance. The synthetic drug, which is known as crystal meth, ice or crank, can come in pill, powder or crystal form, and can be smoked, injected or snorted, producing a rush similar to crack cocaine.
Move to reclassify crystal meth as Class A drug
Crystal methamphetamine could be reclassified as a Class A drug, following moves to increase the penalties for taking the highly addictive substance. The synthetic drug, which is known as crystal meth, ice or crank, can come in pill, powder or crystal form, and can be smoked, injected or snorted, producing a rush similar to crack cocaine.
14 June 2006
Crystal meth reclassified as Class A drug
The governemnt has today confirmed that methylamphetamine, or 'crystal meth', will be re-classified as a Class A drug along with heroin and cocaine. Drugs Minister Vernon Coaker said: "The decision to re-classify the drug is based on international experience and has been taken on the advice of the Advisory Council on the Misuse of Drugs (ACMD).
Crystal meth reclassified as Class A drug
The governemnt has today confirmed that methylamphetamine, or 'crystal meth', will be re-classified as a Class A drug along with heroin and cocaine. Drugs Minister Vernon Coaker said: "The decision to re-classify the drug is based on international experience and has been taken on the advice of the Advisory Council on the Misuse of Drugs (ACMD).
25 April 2007
Possible restrictions on flu remedies following crystal meth fears
Some flu remedies which are sold over-the-counter could be made available on prescription only, amid fears that ingredients contained in them are being used to make Class A drug crystal meth.
Possible restrictions on flu remedies following crystal meth fears
Some flu remedies which are sold over-the-counter could be made available on prescription only, amid fears that ingredients contained in them are being used to make Class A drug crystal meth.
25 September 2015
Further Six Arrested In No Deal Operation In Birmingham
A further six people have been arrested as part of an ongoing operation targeting suspected drug dealers in Birmingham. Police carried out a series of dawn raids on Thursday 24 September, arresting a 17-year-old man, two 19-year-olds and three men aged 21, 26 and 47.
Further Six Arrested In No Deal Operation In Birmingham
A further six people have been arrested as part of an ongoing operation targeting suspected drug dealers in Birmingham. Police carried out a series of dawn raids on Thursday 24 September, arresting a 17-year-old man, two 19-year-olds and three men aged 21, 26 and 47.
17 October 2003
54 arrested in swoop on suspected drug dealers
Sellers of the Big Issue were among 54 people arrested by Merseyside Police today in a crackdown on drug dealing in Liverpool city centre. Operation Manton targeted suspected drug dealers and drug users and 50 men and four women were arrested following a 15-month long investigation by Merseyside Police into drug dealing on the city's streets.
54 arrested in swoop on suspected drug dealers
Sellers of the Big Issue were among 54 people arrested by Merseyside Police today in a crackdown on drug dealing in Liverpool city centre. Operation Manton targeted suspected drug dealers and drug users and 50 men and four women were arrested following a 15-month long investigation by Merseyside Police into drug dealing on the city's streets.
-
Northern Ireland WeatherToday:A showery start with outbreaks most frequent north of Lough Neagh and through the morning, before dwindling during the afternoon as the northwest breezes ease and brighter spells of weak sunshine prosper. Maximum temperature 8 °C.Tonight:A dry night, save for a few light showers around the coasts, with prolonged clear spells and light winds bringing a frosty dawn for many in central and southern parts. Minimum temperature -3 °C.
