- The use of synthetic substances in penetrational facilities is increasingly prevalent.
"Synthetic drugs, classified as New Psychoactive Substances (NPS), are becoming more prevalent in prisons within North Rhine-Westphalia (NRW). In the first half of the year, there were 109 instances of these substances discovered, surpassing the total number found in 2023 (106 instances). For the first time, a device designed to detect NPS will be utilized in a prison.
A representative from the Justice Ministry discussed the issue, stating, "The diverse forms of NPS, including those in paper form, make finding these substances a significant challenge, associated with numerous difficulties."
Unlike traditional drugs like cocaine or cannabis, NPS are not readily detectable by sight or smell. They can be applied to paper and easily smuggled into prisons using items like notebooks. The paper fragments are then burned and inhaled. "Clues of consumption in everyday life are often only noticeable through a physical reaction from the consumers - such as seizures," the ministry representative explained.
For the first time, a device will be implemented at the JVA Rheinbach to identify НPS on various objects. Employees will collect samples using a test strip, which will then provide a result from the detector within seconds. The device is connected to a database within the Rhineland-Palatinate justice system, listing numerous different NPS.
Interestingly, synthetic drugs have moved into second place in terms of the total number of drug findings in prisons. Cannabis was found more frequently (323 times in the first half of the year), but NPS are proving to be a rising concern. Opioids were found 63 times, amphetamines 43 times, psychopharmaceuticals 31 times, and cocaine 26 times.
The Commission, in an effort to combat the issue of New Psychoactive Substances (NPS) in prisons, may seek assistance from the Member States. The device to detect NPS, a significant aid in combating this challenge, is being provided by the justice system of a Member State.
