'Drug dealers profit from harm' - Lancashire Police issue severe ketamine warning as Freshers' Week kicks off
“Drug dealers are not your friends. They profit from harm.”
Lancashire Police have warned students about the dangers of ketamine as Freshers’ Week gets underway across Lancashire.
Police said ketamine can be wrongly viewed as a “safe” party drug, but warned it can cause memory loss, confusion and severe bladder problems. It can also leave people vulnerable and unable to make safe decisions.
Lancashire Police said: “Drug dealers are not your friends. They profit from harm.”
The warning comes as new and returning students settle into university life, with police urging them to be aware of the risks associated with the drug. Through Operation Shore, Lancashire Police said officers are tackling ketamine abuse by pursuing dealers, disrupting supply and educating young people about the dangers of the drug.
The force also warned that buying and selling ketamine is illegal and said its trade helps fund organised crime. Lancashire Police said: “Ketamine is not only dangerous and illegal to buy or sell, but its trade helps fund organised crime.”
Students who know who is supplying drugs are being encouraged to report the information to police. Lancashire Police said: “The information you provide could help protect fellow students and prevent serious harm.”
Drug dealing can be reported to police on 101 or anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. Anyone facing an emergency should call 999. The force said it wants students to work together to keep campuses safe so they can focus on making friends, studying and enjoying university life.