Police tackle Meow Meow usage (From South Wales Guardian)

Police tackle Meow Meow usage

4:00pm Monday 20th August 2012 in News

POLICE in Carmarthenshire have been conducting a series of searches across the county as part of the force’s ongoing efforts to tackle the misuse of Mephedrone, commonly known as MeowMeow.

On Thursday, August 9, 16 warrants were executed in the Llanelli, Ammanford and Carmarthen areas as part of an ongoing operation.

During the searches drugs including mephedrone were seized, together with cash in excess of £2,500.

“This enforcement action follows a campaign of raising awareness of the dangers of meow meowwhich became illegal in 2010 when it was classified as a Class B drug,” said Det Insp Steve Cockwell. “This has included work within the local schools and with local media.We have also responded to the increased popularity of the drug by giving our police dogs additional training so that they can detect this drug in addition to more established drugs. We are also planning further enforcement activity over the summer period.”

Mephedrone is a fine white or off white crystalised powder which was originally sold as a legal alternative to cocaine and amphetamine. The effects of Mephedrone are that users feel euphoric, very alert and talkative.

However, some users feel anxious and paranoid.

The long-term side effects are still largely unknown, but the drug is very addictive.

Users can become very emotional and some can be quite aggressive.

The drug also suppresses the appetite and need for sleep and users can quickly suffer from sleep deprivation and lack of nourishment.

Users will also develop a unique odour, similar to stale cat urine.