The Association of Police and Crime Commissioners (APCC) has issued a statement highlighting the dangers of nitrous oxide, following an incident involving Tottenham footballer Yves Bissouma. APCC leads Joy Allen and David Sidwick emphasise that nitrous oxide, often referred to as “laughing gas” or “hippy crack,” is not a harmless recreational substance but an illegal drug that poses significant risks. Its use can lead to neurological and physical damage, particularly among young people, and has been linked to road accidents caused by drivers losing consciousness.

The statement underscores the successful lobbying efforts by Police and Crime Commissioners to criminalise the possession of nitrous oxide for inhalation purposes, a law enacted last November. The APCC stresses the importance of changing public attitudes towards harmful drugs and the responsibility of role models to discourage their use. The organisation calls for collective action to prevent the use of nitrous oxide and save lives.

Source: APCC