Police now empowered to prosecute nitrous oxide ‘nangs’ sellers in NZ

Summarised by Centrist

Retailers selling nitrous oxide for recreational use, commonly known as “nangs” or “laughing gas,” can now face prosecution under the Psychoactive Substances Act 2013. 

This move, announced by Medsafe, lowers the threshold for police to crack down on sellers as the government takes on the rising misuse of nitrous oxide. 

Health Minister Dr Shane Reti said he is concerned over the growing recreational use of nitrous oxide among young people. “This cannot continue,” he said. 

The drug causes dizziness and light-headedness, with Medsafe pointing out the dangers, which include nerve damage and even death. Medsafe has reported that many businesses, both in-store and online, are selling small- to medium-sized silver gas canisters for recreational use when their legitimate use is to whip cream. 

Retailers have been warned that selling these products with disclaimers does not absolve them of liability. 

Breaching the law could result in up to two years’ imprisonment or a $500,000 fine for companies.

The crackdown comes amid reports of increasing recreational use of the gas, sold in vape stores and online. The government is considering further restrictions.

Read more over at The Post

Image: ProMo-Cymru