NDLEA orders arrest of sellers, users of laughing gas

NDLEA orders arrest of sellers, users of laughing gas

Chairman of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Buba Marwa, has ordered the arrest of sellers and users of nitrous oxide, popularly known as laughing gas.

It said the drug posed threats to their mental and overall wellbeing of young people abusing it.

NDLEA spokesperson, Femi Babafemi, disclosed this in a statement on Tuesday.

He said was determined to deal with anyone, no matter their social status involved in the illegal sale or use of the gas.

The statement partly read, “Popularly called laughing gas or N20, it is fast emerging as a drug in demand in Nigeria by young party-goers or fun-seekers to feel intoxicated or high. “The gas is often transferred from its containers into balloons, from where its inhaled for euphoric effects.

“The decision to clamp down on those involved in the illegal sale and use of nitrous oxide follows an analysis of the effects on those who abuse the substance.”

The agency noted some of the effects of the drugs on people as dizziness, disorientation, headache, lightheadedness, fainting spells, hallucinations, falling unconscious and other psychiatric symptoms.