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2 men arrested, 1.2kg of 'mushroom' drug seized by CNB

About 1,138g of the "mushroom" drug was found in packets of the "Butterfly" brand tobacco product at one of suspect's residences. (PHOTO: CNB)
About 1,138g of the "mushroom" drug was found in packets of the "Butterfly" brand tobacco product at one of suspect's residences. (PHOTO: CNB)

SINGAPORE — About 1.2kg of the “mushroom” drug was seized following the arrest of two men on Monday (24 June).

The suspects, both Singaporeans, were arrested in the vicinity of Redhill Market, said the Central Narcotics Bureau (CNB) in a news release on Wednesday.

“Mushroom” is the colloquial name for a type of new psychoactive substance (NPS). Such substances are listed as Class A controlled drugs in Singapore.

Following the arrests, one of the men – a 46-year-old – surrendered a packet containing about 52g of vegetable matter suspected to contain NPS. A search of the other suspect – a 53-year-old – uncovered 3g of a similar substance.

CNB officers then raided the 53-year-old’s residence at Redhill Road, where they recovered about 1,138g of vegetable matter suspected to contain NPS. The drugs were found in packets of the “Butterfly” brand tobacco product.

Investigations into the drug activities of both suspects are ongoing.

NPS-type drugs are substances that mimic the effects of other Class A controlled drugs such as cannabis, cocaine and “Ecstasy”, said the CNB. They are produced by introducing slight modifications to the chemical structures of controlled drugs.

Use of such drugs has been linked to adverse reactions in users, including paranoia, seizures, hallucinations and even death.

Those convicted of trafficking Class A controlled drugs face a minimum sentence of five years’ jail and five strokes of the cane. They will also be subject to harsher penalties if caught for re-offending or for selling to young or vulnerable persons.

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