Police Warnings After 'Legal Highs' Ban

Five new so-called 'legal highs' have been banned for a year.

They include Ethylphenidate - also known as 'ching' or 'burst' - and commonly used as a cocaine substitute.

This comes after concerns were raised by the Advisory Council on the Misuse of Drugs. Police in Scotland are asking people to avoid the substances, saying they could be puting their lives at risk.

Detective Inspector Michael Miller, Police Scotland’s National Drug Co-ordinator said:

"Drug misuse can ruin lives and cause significant misery to families and the community.

"This temporary banning order will keep the public safe and allow the police to target drug traffickers.

"We strongly advise people to avoid taking these substances. You can never be sure of what they may contain, what their strength may be or how they may affect you. There is no ‘safe’ amount to take. We cannot stress highly enough that anyone taking any illicit drug or NPS is potentially putting their life at risk."