Cannabis sweets are taken off the street in amnesty
AN AMNESTY for CBD gummies has been launched, after some sold in local shops were found to contain a Class A drug.
The issue with Cherry Mule CBD Gummies came to light after local testing uncovered that a current batch of cherry flavoured gummies contain a high level of controlled cannabinoids – in this case cannabinol – and as a result, are a Class A substance.
CBD gummies are sweets that normally contain CBD oil, which is legal.
Guernsey Border Agency officers have spoken with local retailers and they have agreed to cease sales of this specific product.
Possession of a Class A drug is a criminal offence, which can attract a substantial fine or a term of imprisonment.
The concern is that the sweets could have a much stronger psychoactive effect than advertised.
Because of the potential health risks they pose, and because of the high content of illicit cannabinoids, islanders are being advised not consume or retain possession of these products.
Guernsey Police and the Guernsey Border Agency is advising islanders who have previously purchased these products to voluntarily hand them in at the police station or at the front desk at New Jetty GBA offices as part of an amnesty, which will run until next Wednesday.
People will not face criminal prosecution for unlawful possession of a Class A drug when handing these products in during this amnesty period.
Substance Use lead for the Health Improvement Commission, Andrea Nightingale, said it was worrying that products were being imported into the island that were not compliant with local law on drugs.
‘These are stronger than legal limits, and some contain cannabinol, which is a Class A controlled drug,’ she said.
‘We’re very pleased to hear that the situation is under control, and being closely monitored by law enforcement. It is important to remember that a person can react very differently to the same drug especially if the contents are stronger than expected.’
Going forwards, officers will be monitoring the import of CBD products to ensure that they comply with the local legislation.
If anyone has any concerns about their own drug use or are worried about a relative, friend or colleague they can contact the local free and confidential service, Independence on 729000 or Action for Children for under 25 year olds on 700218.
