CHILD DRUG SHOCK

Now the youngster's father is calling for action to have these so-called 'legal highs' taken off the street.

The news comes as police in England investigate the deaths of two teenagers, believed to be linked to use of similar drugs.

The Lurgan father spoke of his anguish after he discovered his 12-year-old son had taken the drug..

The man, who did not want to be named, said the drugs had to be taken off the street before someone is killed.

"It's getting out of hand," said the father.

"There are children, some as young as 10, being offered these drugs.

"They can get them from the shops in the area and there are people selling them on the street."

Mephedrone can be bought legitimately and can induce similar effects to cocaine and amphetamine.

"There are children being taken to hospital unconscious because they are high on these drugs," continued the man.

"I have spoken to my doctor and drugs counsellors and they say these types of cases are on the increase - something needs to be done.

"As a parent I am angry at the total lack of action to stop this.

"The police need to step in and stop these drugs being available."

Police in Craigavon have warned of the dangers of Mephedrone - indeed a quantity of the substance was seized for forensic testing late last year as police swooped on a local shop supplying the 'legal high'.

The substance is not a controlled drug under the Misuse Drugs Act, however, it is hoped it will become illegal later in 2010.

The PSNI strongly advised anyone who is offered drugs, other than under medical supervision, not to take them at any time.

A police statement said: "The potential risk of damage to health from the misuse of any drug far outweighs any benefit you may think you are getting."

The PSNI Organised Crime Branch would welcome any information in relation to anyone involved in the supply or distribution of this drug. They can be contacted on 0845 600 8000.

Alternatively, information can be passed anonymously to the Crimestoppers charity by calling 0800 555 111.