Ketamine Crisis: PCC Demands Class A Reclassification

A Police and Crime Commissioner has issued a stark warning about a growing ketamine crisis, advocating for its reclassification to a Class A drug. This plea comes after the Advisory Council on the Misuse of Drugs (ACMD) previously advised against reclassification, suggesting it would not significantly reduce misuse. The commissioner argues this stance is out of touch with the reality on the ground, citing increasing pressure on services and a surge in rehabilitation referrals nationwide.

Ketamine, commonly used in the NHS for anesthesia and pain relief, has gained notoriety as a "party drug" due to its hallucinogenic properties. It is increasingly prevalent among young adults, with health professionals observing a rise in cases of severe abdominal pain, known as "K cramps." Reclassifying ketamine to Class A would allow for life sentences for suppliers, providing law enforcement with stronger tools to combat illegal supply chains. The commissioner emphasized the drug's potential for irreversible physical and brain damage, urging immediate action before its use escalates to levels seen with cocaine or other Class A substances.