Operation Recall - Psychoactive substances

Thursday, 8 May 2014 - 4:41pm

National News

Police began Operation Recall at 12.01am Thursday with the immediate focus to work with retailers to ensure they have taken appropriate steps to remove all products from sale.

Police and Health Enforcement Officers have been visiting all 148 licensed retailers throughout the day to ensure they are complying with the product recall, including ensuring all remaining stock is removed from shelves and arrangements made for product to be returned to suppliers.

‘This Operation has an immediate focus on retailers and by 4.30pm this afternoon visits to all 143 retailers (97%) had been completed, with no significant issues reported. We will complete visits to the remaining retailers by 6pm this evening ‘said Inspector Rob Duindam of Police National Headquarters.

‘Some hard work by Police and Ministry of Health leading up to today has ensured today’s focus on enforcement and prevention has run smoothly. Our staff report that retailers have been very positive throughout this process ’.

Police and Ministry of Health enforcement officers will continue to monitor the situation and respond as needed to any issues which arise.

Inspector Rob Duindam says ‘There will be ongoing visits to retailers to ensure psychoactive products remain off the shelves. This may include conducting controlled purchase operations to ensure sales are no longer occurring’.

‘It is now an offence to possess, supply or sell psychoactive products. As with all illegal drugs, Police can now investigate and prosecute manufacturers, suppliers and those found in possession of unapproved psychoactive products.

“I encourage anyone with concerns about the illegal sale or distribution of these products to contact the Police.

“Information can also be provided anonymously to the organisation Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111’. said Mr Duindam.

ENDS

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