Import ban on psychoactive drug
The government has today banned the importation of a drug found in some samples of so-called legal high Ivory Wave.
The importation ban on 2-DPMP follows advice from the Advisory Council on the Misuse of Drugs (ACMD) which recommended the move to cut the supply of this harmful drug and stop it gaining a foot-hold in the UK.
From today the UK Border Agency is able to seize and destroy any shipments of 2-DPMP found at UK borders.
Clear message to traffickers
Crime prevention minister James Brokenshire said: ‘Banning the importation of this harmful substance sends out a clear message to unscrupulous traffickers trying to start a market here for their dangerous drugs.
‘The ACMD’s advice on Ivory Wave reinforces what we already know - that substances touted as ‘legal highs’ contain dangerous and illegal substances.
‘Users need to understand they could be breaking the law and risk seriously damaging their mental and physical health.’
Independent advice
In September, the minister asked the ACMD to monitor closely the prevalence and harms associated with this new drug found in some samples of Ivory Wave.
The Council considered the available evidence and recommended immediate steps should be taken to curb its import. It also noted, based on samples of Ivory Wave, there does not appear to be significant prevalence of 2-DPMP in the UK.
The government has accepted the ACMD’s advice - that banning importation is a proportionate response at this time. The use and availability of this drug will be monitored and further action taken if necessary.