KUALA LUMPUR: The National Anti-Drugs Agency (Nada) today confirmed there are no cases of drug abuse or distribution of synthetic drug, Flakka, in the country.
Nada in a statement said the agency will cooperate with other enforcement agencies to monitor and to ensure that any attempts to smuggle or consume the synthetic drug will be traced immediately.
The statement was released following a video clip which has gone viral, in which several individuals were seen behaving aggressively in public places, allegedly as the result of using Flakka.
Checks on social media revealed that the video which went viral was a combination of several short clips merged into a four minute video, and it is believed to be filmed overseas.
“The video surfaced in 2015. However up until now we do not know the source of the video and whether it was really due to the effect of Flakka drug abuse,” the statement read.
Flakka was developed in 1960s by researchers who explored its potential as a central nervous stimulant and anti-hypotensive agent or vasopressor for medical use. However, the use of the synthetic drug was banned after it was found to be more dangerous than cocaine and methamphetamine if it was misused.
The psych-stimulant synthetic drug, shaped like bath salts, is said to be able to make its user extremely aggressive. It was reported that the usage of Flakka has spread to New Jersey, Chicago and New York.
Nada said the intake of Flakka is very harmful as it will increase the body temperature and heart rate. It also may damage the kidney. The chemical compounds in Flakka will stimulate the user’s brain to hallucinate, which is similar to the effect of methamphetamine and cocaine.
The agency urged the public to steer clear from drug abuse activities and to come forward should they have any information to share.
Nada can be reached at 03-8911 2424 or email: pro@adk.gov.my.