Man arrested for possession of crystal meth

Methamphetamine is a strong central nervous system stimulant which is mainly used as a recreational drug, instead of a treatment for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and obesity, which it was originally created for.

October 4, 2017

Zianne Leibrandt 1 minute read

Newcastle Crime Prevention Unit members arrested a 28-year-old man for being in possession of Methamphetamine (Crystal Meth) in Newcastle CBD on Tuesday, September 26.

Newcastle SAPS Corporate Communications and Liaison Officer, Captain Jabulani Ncube confirmed the arrest and said the man was granted bail.

The suspect appeared in the Newcastle Magistrate’s Court on September 29, but the case was remanded pending further investigations.

Capt Ncube claimed around 50 drug-related arrests were made each month, with the most common drug found to be dagga.

“If you are to be found in possession of drugs, you will be arrested and fined a minimun of R500,” he said.

Methamphetamine is a strong central nervous system stimulant which is mainly used as a recreational drug, instead of a treatment for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and obesity, which it was originally created for.

In smaller doses, crystal meth can elevate mood swings, increase alertness, concentration and energy in fatigued individuals, reduce appetite and promote weight loss.

However, if misused in higher doses, it can cause psychosis, breakdown of skeletal muscle, seizures, bleeding on the brain, unpredictable and rapid mood swings, prominent delusions and violent behaviour.

According to sources, meth addicts also tend to lose their teeth as a result of the drug. This condition is known as ‘meth mouth’.

Physical side-effects of methamphetamine use include the following:

Loss of appetite,

Hyperactivity,

Dilated pupils,

Flushed skin,

Excessive sweating,

Dry mouth and teeth grinding,

Headache,

Irregular heartbeat,

Rapid breathing,

High blood pressure,