Pubdate: Tue, 17 Jan 2012
Source: Cyprus Mail, The (Cyprus)
Copyright: Cyprus Mail 2012
Contact:  http://www.cyprus-mail.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/100
Author: Jacqueline Agathocleous

BANNED LEGAL HIGHS IN PRISON

SYNTHETIC narcotic substances banned last year appear to have been 
found in the Central Prison, the prison's deputy director said yesterday.

According to George Tryfonides, the drugs have been taken for lab 
tests, but are believed to be part of a number of substances that 
were considered "legal highs", under the name of Dream.

"On Saturday, a convict offered to hand over to members of staff a 
specific amount of drug substances, as he called it," said Tryfonides.

He said Nicosia's Drug Squad (YKAN) Nicosia was immediately summoned 
to the prison.

"At first view, it appears it is a substance that has been 
circulating recently called 'Dream', which isn't easily spotted by 
sniffer dogs or the specialised machinery. But we are waiting for the 
results of the chemical tests," Tryfonides explained.

"In the meantime, a widescale investigation was carried out on the 
entire wing and another one or two grams were found in a toilet, as 
well as another small quantity that was found in a cell of one inmate."

He said the case was still under investigation. "When a convict wants 
to tell you something, he always wants something in return," said 
Tryfonides. "But we won't accept these tactics. The specific convict 
handed something over, but there are still questions: 'Where did you 
find it? Who brought it here? Is it you, and you want to get others 
into trouble? Maybe you know who brings them to the prison'?"

Last year, 17 synthetic narcotic substances were banned by an 
executive decision of the Cabinet.

Known at the time as "legal highs", they were sold in kiosks around 
the island. There were various types, including Dream, Spice and 
Ivory Wave, intended as a substitute to cocaine.
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