Two caught in first New Psychoactive Substances arrest

SINGAPORE - The Central Narcotics Bureau (CNB) arrested two male Singaporeans aged 22 and 23 for New Psychoactive Substances (NPS) related offences on May 2. A total of about 94 grams of "K2" or synthetic cannabis were seized from the arrest.

This is the first arrest made for NPS related offences after a list of such substances were classified as Class A controlled drugs on May 1, according to a statement by CNB.

The two men were arrested at a shopping centre in Tampines. About 71.7g of synthetic cannabis were found on the suspects.

The 22-year-old was suspected to have been trafficking in synthetic cannabis. CNB officers followed up with a raid of his residence and found another 22.3g of synthetic cannabis.

He is being investigated for trafficking in a controlled drug. If found guilty, he could face a minimum of 5 years' imprisonment and 5 strokes of the cane.

Abuse of NPS can cause serious side effects, such as severe toxic reaction leading to death and adverse cardiovascular problems.

natlim@sph.com.sg