Police appeal after thousands of laughing gas cannisters stolen from industrial estate

manchestereveningnews.co.uk:

Around 9,000 cannisters of nitrous oxide have been stolen from an industrial estate in Merseyside. Police say three men broke into Knowsley Business Park and stole a trailer containing the cannisters at around 10.15pm on Sunday.

Last year there was a change in law and nitrous oxide, also known as laughing gas, was classed as a Class C drug. It means that possession of nitrous oxide, where a person intends to inhale it for a psychoactive effect, is an offence. READ MORE: Suspect named after 'disgusting' Manchester Arena attack tribute damage Det Insp Steve Byrom said: "Enquiries are still in the early stages into this incident and we are determined to find the three males responsible.

Nitrous oxide is now illegal if the intended purpose is to inhale it and those caught possessing it will face consequences. Abuse of nitrous oxide is dangerous and is often linked to antisocial behaviour and criminality. "We would encourage people to think about the possible consequences of possessing or selling this illegal drug.

We are relentless in disrupting and bringing offenders to justice, whilst supporting and safeguarding those most at risk of harm and exploitation.