Appeal for information after around 9,000 cannisters of nitrous oxide stolen

Police are appealing for information after around 9,000 cannisters of nitrous oxide were stolen in Knowsley on Sunday 24 November.

At around 10.15pm, three males broke into Knowsley Business Park and stole a trailer, which contained the cannisters.

Last year there was a change in law and nitrous oxide, also known as laughing gas, was classed as a Class C drug controlled under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971.

It means that possession of nitrous oxide, where a person intends to inhale it for a psychoactive effect, is an offence.  

An investigation into the incident is ongoing and we are reminding people that possessing nitrous oxide is illegal if using it for this purpose.

Heavy, regular abuse of this drug also poses significant health risks for users including anaemia and in more severe cases, nerve damage or paralysis.

Detective Inspector 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. I would ask anyone who has information about this kind of activity to come forward so action can be taken.”

If you have any information about this incident, you can call 101 or DM @MerPolCC, quoting reference number 24000995184. You can also call Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.