Police Laboratory Detects Seven New Drugs in the Region
In Madeira, new psychoactive substances (NPS) now account for half of all drug seizures. This concerning trend was highlighted in a recent parliamentary hearing, where Maria JoĂŁo Caldeira, an expert from the PolĂcia Judiciária’s (PJ) Scientific Police Laboratory, shared key findings. These new substances are most commonly found in drug raids by the PJ. Some have never been detected in any other part of Portugal. "In just over a year of operating in Madeira, our laboratory found seven new substances, mostly during police seizures," Caldeira said. These discoveries have raised concerns about the growing presence of synthetic drugs in the region.
PJ Plans Study of Madeira’s Wastewater to Track Drug Use
To better understand and fight this problem, the PJ is preparing to launch a project that will study the island’s wastewater. This project will track and assess drug use on the island through the analysis of wastewater. It could offer valuable insights into consumption patterns and help detect new drugs early on. Caldeira confirmed that the PJ is “ready to move forward” with this innovative project, which is expected to be a critical tool in monitoring drug use.
“Bloom” Most Common Drug Seized, With Young People Most Affected
One of the key points raised by Caldeira was the widespread seizure of a synthetic drug called “bloom.” It was the most commonly found drug in recent months, and it has had a particularly harmful impact on young people. Many young people have been hospitalized after using it. Caldeira explained that "bloom" was responsible for most of the hospitalizations in Madeira last year, highlighting the need for better programs to intervene with young users.
In terms of substances seized, it was also found that the most sold drug would be 'bloom'”, he added, explaining that it is “the synthetic drug that only last year led to more people being hospitalized in the archipelago
Calls To Address Drug Consumption Instead of Individual Substances
Caldeira also discussed recent changes to Portugal's drug laws, expressing concern that they have not kept up with the fast-changing drug landscape. She noted that the law remains too focused on specific drugs, while a more general approach could be more effective in addressing the broader issue of drug abuse. She suggested creating legislation that addresses the overall issue of drug consumption, rather than focusing on individual substances. She also pointed out that the low street prices of these new drugs make them easily accessible and contribute to their widespread use.
Madeira's Bloom Epidemic: A Crisis Rooted in China
Madeira is facing a drug crisis started by a country that uses drugs as a political tool.
14 Kilograms of Heroin Seized in Major Drug Bust in Funchal
Police in Funchal have seized more than 14 kilograms of heroin and 9 kilograms of MDMA in what has proven to be the largest drug bust in Portugal this year
Madeira Second Only to the Azores in NPS Use
The rise of new psychoactive substances in Madeira is part of a larger trend seen in other regions of Portugal. Caldeira noted that Madeira has the second-highest rate of NPS use in the country, after the Azores. Since the problem was first noticed in Madeira in 2012, there have been over 1,000 hospitalizations for mental disorientation caused by these substances. As the situation continues to worsen, authorities are exploring new strategies to address the crisis.
Care for a share?
Comments