Myanmar marked International Day against drug abuse and illicit trafficking by burning a pile of illegally trafficked drugs in Yangon on Monday, June 26.

Myanmar torches illegal drugs on World Drug Day

June 26th is observed as World Drug Day and this year's theme is people first stop stigma and discrimination. In this episode of WION conversation, we decode the impact of drug abuse on the teenagers, how it can be averted and what are the factors that drives up substance abuse around the world with a special focus on India.

World Drug Day: Drug epidemic knocking at our doors

The United States Justice Department on Friday (June 23) slapped criminal charges against four Chinese chemical manufacturing companies and eight individuals. Allegations against these companies and individuals are that they illegally trafficked chemicals which are used to make fentanyl, a highly addictive painkiller&nbsp;mainly&nbsp;responsible for the opioid crisis in the US.

The indictment represents the first time the US has gone ahead to prosecute Chinese companies for making precursor chemicals that are used to make the highly addictive painkiller being misused as a drug.&nbsp;

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken visited China earlier this week. He made clear that the US needs much greater cooperation from China to stem the flow of fentanyl.&nbsp;

During Blinken's visit, China and the US agreed to stabilise their rivalry so that an unintended conflict does not occur. But the visit failed to produce any major breakthrough. The diplomatic strain between the two countries reapeared when US President Joe Biden regarded Chinese President Xi Jinping as a 'dictator'.

The companies in the focus of the three separate indictments face allegations that they sold the precursor chemicals to the Sinaloa Cartel in Mexico which has funnelled the drug into the US.

Prosecutors have said that these companies published&nbsp;advertisements of the precursor chemicals on social media platforms in Mexico and the United States and they made use of fake customs forms and mislabelled packages in order to ship the precursor chemicals by boat and air.

"These companies and their employees knowingly conspired to manufacture deadly fentanyl for distribution in the United States," said US Attorney General Merrick Garland.

"Just one of these China-based chemical companies shipped more than 200 kg of fentanyl-related precursor chemicals to the US for the purpose of making 50 kg&nbsp;fentanyl, a quantity that could contain enough deadly doses of fentanyl to kill 25 million Americans," he said further.

Charged in three separate cases filed in federal court in New York were against Hubei Amarvel Biotech Co, Anhui Rencheng Technology Co, Anhui Moker New Material Technology Co, and Hefei GSK Trade Co.

The eight individuals who have been charged include executives and employees of the four companies. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

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The United States Justice Department on Friday (June 23) slapped criminal charges against four Chinese chemical manufacturing companies and eight individuals. Allegations against these companies and individuals are that they illegally trafficked chemicals which are used to make fentanyl, a highly addictive painkiller mainly responsible for the opioid crisis in the US.

The United States Justice Department on Friday (June 23) slapped criminal charges against four Chinese chemical manufacturing companies and eight individuals. Allegations against these companies and individuals are that they illegally trafficked chemicals which are used to make fentanyl, a highly addictive painkiller mainly responsible for the opioid crisis in the US. The indictment represents the first time the US has gone ahead to prosecute Chinese companies for making precursor chemicals that are used to make the highly addictive painkiller being misused as a drug. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken visited China earlier this week. He made clear that the US needs much greater cooperation from China to stem the flow of fentanyl. During Blinken's visit, China and the US agreed to stabilise their rivalry so that an unintended conflict does not occur. But the visit failed to produce any major breakthrough. The diplomatic strain between the two countries reapeared when US President Joe Biden regarded Chinese President Xi Jinping as a 'dictator'. The companies in the focus of the three separate indictments face allegations that they sold the precursor chemicals to the Sinaloa Cartel in Mexico which has funnelled the drug into the US. Prosecutors have said that these companies published advertisements of the precursor chemicals on social media platforms in Mexico and the United States and they made use of fake customs forms and mislabelled packages in order to ship the precursor chemicals by boat and air. "These companies and their employees knowingly conspired to manufacture deadly fentanyl for distribution in the United States," said US Attorney General Merrick Garland. "Just one of these China-based chemical companies shipped more than 200 kg of fentanyl-related precursor chemicals to the US for the purpose of making 50 kg fentanyl, a quantity that could contain enough deadly doses of fentanyl to kill 25 million Americans," he said further. Charged in three separate cases filed in federal court in New York were against Hubei Amarvel Biotech Co, Anhui Rencheng Technology Co, Anhui Moker New Material Technology Co, and Hefei GSK Trade Co. The eight individuals who have been charged include executives and employees of the four companies. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

US files charges against four Chinese firms, 8 executives for fentanyl production

Preschools in Taiwan's New Taipei City find themselves embroiled in a "drugging" scandal where teachers have been accused of sedating children with cough syrups which, contain drugs like phenobarbital and benzodiazepines.

Teachers at Taiwan Kindergarten accused of drugging children

Preschools in Taiwan’s New Taipei City find themselves embroiled in a “drugging” scandal where teachers have been accused of sedating children with cough syrups which, as per BBC, contain drugs like phenobarbital and benzodiazepines. This comes after parents complained about what they described as withdrawal symptoms over the holidays which has since sparked concerns and protests.&nbsp;

The parents in Taiwan filed complaints against a private preschool named New Taipei Kid Castle in May after accusing the staff of feeding their children “unknown drugs”. It was later found that the children had been given medicines containing drugs which are said to be highly addictive sedatives, some of which have been phased out of certain countries. 
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<h2>Parents’ accusations against teachers</h2>

Earlier this year, parents said they noticed what appeared to be withdrawal symptoms in their children over the long Lunar New Year holiday back in February, Mike, the&nbsp;father of a five-year-old child, told BBC Chinese.&nbsp;

“Some parents found their children, over the vacation, had become irritable, restless and screamed when sleeping, and even cried out with leg cramps,” said Mike, adding that after speaking to their children they found that the staff had been giving them an “unknown potion”.

A similar case emerged across the island in the city of Kaohsiung, reported BBC, where the local health department found four doctors guilty of improper use of one of the drugs, phenobarbital, on about 20 children.&nbsp;

The doctors’ practices have since been suspended and were also fined 1.4 million Taiwanese dollars ($ 46,121). As per local media reports, the cough medicines in question were barbiturates which is a class of drugs which includes phenobarbital and have been phased out in most countries.&nbsp;

Additionally, drugs containing phenobarbital are used during treatment for epilepsy and or used as surgical anaesthesia. Meanwhile, benzodiazepines commonly known as “benzos”, are a class of depressant drugs most commonly used to treat severe anxiety and insomnia.

<h2>The ongoing investigation</h2>

Based on the complaints filed by parents in April and May, the police launched an investigation. However, officials said it is not clear why the children were given these addictive syrups.

Meanwhile, hundreds of parents also took to the streets on Sunday in New Taipei City and demanded greater transparency from the ongoing police investigation of the case. So far, the principal of the school and five teachers have been arrested and questioned by the police amid the ongoing criminal investigation. &nbsp;

The kindergarten at the centre of this scandal has since been closed. The Kid Castle Educational Institute was ordered to shut down last week and its directors have been fined 150,000 Taiwanese dollars ($$4,872).&nbsp;

<h2>New Taipei City government under fire</h2>

The New Taipei City’s government came under fire last week after the parents accused the teachers of shifting the blame after one of them confessed and said that the students were given cough medicine, as per local media reports.&nbsp;

However, the teacher said it was with the parents’ consent which has since sparked an uproar. Parents told the local media that while they did receive a list of medication, they never thought it contained barbiturates.&nbsp;

“When kids catch colds, the cough medicine prescribed by the doctor will not contain barbiturates. It is completely different from cough medicine,” said one parent, as quoted by the Taiwan News.&nbsp;

This has since prompted New Taipei Mayor Hou Yu-ih to issue an apology for his handling of the case and spoke about how teachers with ulterior motives had done “heartbreaking things” to the children, as per local media reports.&nbsp;

Amid public criticism, two major preschool unions in the city have urged their members to stop administering medicines to students and asked parents to keep their children at home if they are ill for recovery.&nbsp;

As per local media reports, preschool staff and teachers have allegedly been bullied across Taiwan since the scandal. Meanwhile, Taipei City Hospital has offered free blood tests for preschool children to check for traces of sedatives.&nbsp; 
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Preschools in Taiwan’s New Taipei City find themselves embroiled in a “drugging” scandal where teachers have been accused of sedating children with cough syrups which, as per BBC, contain drugs like phenobarbital and benzodiazepines.

Preschools in Taiwan’s New Taipei City find themselves embroiled in a “drugging” scandal where teachers have been accused of sedating children with cough syrups which, as per BBC, contain drugs like phenobarbital and benzodiazepines. This comes after parents complained about what they described as withdrawal symptoms over the holidays which has since sparked concerns and protests. The parents in Taiwan filed complaints against a private preschool named New Taipei Kid Castle in May after accusing the staff of feeding their children “unknown drugs”. It was later found that the children had been given medicines containing drugs which are said to be highly addictive sedatives, some of which have been phased out of certain countries. Parents’ accusations against teachers Earlier this year, parents said they noticed what appeared to be withdrawal symptoms in their children over the long Lunar New Year holiday back in February, Mike, the father of a five-year-old child, told BBC Chinese. “Some parents found their children, over the vacation, had become irritable, restless and screamed when sleeping, and even cried out with leg cramps,” said Mike, adding that after speaking to their children they found that the staff had been giving them an “unknown potion”. A similar case emerged across the island in the city of Kaohsiung, reported BBC, where the local health department found four doctors guilty of improper use of one of the drugs, phenobarbital, on about 20 children. The doctors’ practices have since been suspended and were also fined 1.4 million Taiwanese dollars ($ 46,121). As per local media reports, the cough medicines in question were barbiturates which is a class of drugs which includes phenobarbital and have been phased out in most countries. Additionally, drugs containing phenobarbital are used during treatment for epilepsy and or used as surgical anaesthesia. Meanwhile, benzodiazepines commonly known as “benzos”, are a class of depressant drugs most commonly used to treat severe anxiety and insomnia. The ongoing investigation Based on the complaints filed by parents in April and May, the police launched an investigation. However, officials said it is not clear why the children were given these addictive syrups. Meanwhile, hundreds of parents also took to the streets on Sunday in New Taipei City and demanded greater transparency from the ongoing police investigation of the case. So far, the principal of the school and five teachers have been arrested and questioned by the police amid the ongoing criminal investigation. The kindergarten at the centre of this scandal has since been closed. The Kid Castle Educational Institute was ordered to shut down last week and its directors have been fined 150,000 Taiwanese dollars ($$4,872). New Taipei City government under fire The New Taipei City’s government came under fire last week after the parents accused the teachers of shifting the blame after one of them confessed and said that the students were given cough medicine, as per local media reports. However, the teacher said it was with the parents’ consent which has since sparked an uproar. Parents told the local media that while they did receive a list of medication, they never thought it contained barbiturates. “When kids catch colds, the cough medicine prescribed by the doctor will not contain barbiturates. It is completely different from cough medicine,” said one parent, as quoted by the Taiwan News. This has since prompted New Taipei Mayor Hou Yu-ih to issue an apology for his handling of the case and spoke about how teachers with ulterior motives had done “heartbreaking things” to the children, as per local media reports. Amid public criticism, two major preschool unions in the city have urged their members to stop administering medicines to students and asked parents to keep their children at home if they are ill for recovery. As per local media reports, preschool staff and teachers have allegedly been bullied across Taiwan since the scandal. Meanwhile, Taipei City Hospital has offered free blood tests for preschool children to check for traces of sedatives. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Teachers in Taiwan accused of ‘drugging’ kindergarten children, parents alarmed

Health officials in Australia have issued a public warning advising men to avoid "Big Penis USA" pills after discovering they contained&nbsp;sildenafil —&nbsp;the erectile dysfunction medication sold under the brand name Viagra.&nbsp;

The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) released a public service announcement, cautioning men to avoid taking the pill.&nbsp;

“Big Penis USA tablets pose a serious risk to your health and should not be taken,” the TGA said.&nbsp;

"The tablets contain the undeclared substance sildenafil.&nbsp;It may interact with nitrates found in some prescription drugs and may lower blood pressure to dangerous levels," it added, declaring the supply of the pill as illegal.&nbsp;

Sildenafil is a prescription-only drug, used to treat erectile dysfunction.&nbsp;If&nbsp;combined with certain prescription medicines, the dosage can be potentially fatal, the public health watchdog said.&nbsp;

<h2>TGA joins forces with ABF</h2>

The TGA has joined forces with the&nbsp;Australian Border Force (ABF) to stop future shipments of Big Penis USA tables from entering the Down Under country.

"Big Penis USA tablets have not been assessed by the TGA for quality, safety or efficacy as required under Australian legislation, and the place of manufacture is not approved by the TGA."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/nuts-woodpeckers-stash-300-kg-of-acorns-in-a-california-home-559844">Also read |&nbsp;NUTS! Woodpeckers stash 300 kg of acorns in a California home</a>

Notably, the pill is not sold in Australian stores. However, owing to its wild internet popularity, Australian men had been purchasing the product online.&nbsp;

"The TGA is advising consumers to exercise extreme caution when purchasing medicines from unknown overseas Internet sites and has produced a short video on the risks associated with buying medicines and medical devices online."

The ABF will be seizing and destroying any Big Penis USA products that are intercepted at the border.&nbsp;

<h2>US FDA issued similar warning</h2>

Previously, the US&nbsp;Federal Drug Administration had also issued a similar warning advisory about the Big Penis USA pills for the exact same reason. After examining the international mail shipments of the product, FDA found&nbsp;high, undisclosed amount of&nbsp;sildenafil in the pills.

"The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is advising consumers not to purchase or use Big Penis Male Sexual Stimulant, a product promoted for sexual enhancement. This product was identified by FDA during an examination of international mail shipments," the health watchdog said in 2016.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/japan-to-ban-recording-upskirting-non-consensual-sexual-videos-trending-on-wion-588258">WATCH |&nbsp;Japan to ban recording upskirting &amp; non-consensual sexual videos | Trending on WION</a>

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"Health care professionals and patients are encouraged to report adverse events or side effects related to the use of this product to the FDA's MedWatch Safety Information and Adverse Event Reporting Program," it added.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
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Health officials in Australia have issued a public warning advising men to avoid "Big Penis USA" pills after discovering they contained sildenafil — the erectile dysfunction medication sold under the brand name Viagra.

Health officials in Australia have issued a public warning advising men to avoid "Big Penis USA" pills after discovering they contained sildenafil — the erectile dysfunction medication sold under the brand name Viagra. The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) released a public service announcement, cautioning men to avoid taking the pill. “Big Penis USA tablets pose a serious risk to your health and should not be taken,” the TGA said. "The tablets contain the undeclared substance sildenafil. It may interact with nitrates found in some prescription drugs and may lower blood pressure to dangerous levels," it added, declaring the supply of the pill as illegal. Sildenafil is a prescription-only drug, used to treat erectile dysfunction. If combined with certain prescription medicines, the dosage can be potentially fatal, the public health watchdog said. TGA joins forces with ABF The TGA has joined forces with the Australian Border Force (ABF) to stop future shipments of Big Penis USA tables from entering the Down Under country. "Big Penis USA tablets have not been assessed by the TGA for quality, safety or efficacy as required under Australian legislation, and the place of manufacture is not approved by the TGA." Also read | NUTS! Woodpeckers stash 300 kg of acorns in a California home Notably, the pill is not sold in Australian stores. However, owing to its wild internet popularity, Australian men had been purchasing the product online. "The TGA is advising consumers to exercise extreme caution when purchasing medicines from unknown overseas Internet sites and has produced a short video on the risks associated with buying medicines and medical devices online." The ABF will be seizing and destroying any Big Penis USA products that are intercepted at the border. US FDA issued similar warning Previously, the US Federal Drug Administration had also issued a similar warning advisory about the Big Penis USA pills for the exact same reason. After examining the international mail shipments of the product, FDA found high, undisclosed amount of sildenafil in the pills. "The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is advising consumers not to purchase or use Big Penis Male Sexual Stimulant, a product promoted for sexual enhancement. This product was identified by FDA during an examination of international mail shipments," the health watchdog said in 2016. WATCH | Japan to ban recording upskirting & non-consensual sexual videos | Trending on WION × "Health care professionals and patients are encouraged to report adverse events or side effects related to the use of this product to the FDA's MedWatch Safety Information and Adverse Event Reporting Program," it added. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

'Big Penis USA' pills banned in Australia for containing hidden drug ingredient

A teenager in the UK was sentenced to prison after he crushed a car with his tractor under the influence of drugs. The incident was caught on CCTV after which the video went viral on social media.

The CCTV footage shows a tractor moving on a two-lane road as a car comes from the opposite direction. The tractor is then seen veering into the other lane and colliding with the car before flipping. The car driver tries to prevent the head-on collision by applying brakes but the vehicle is completely crushed under the tractor.

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Tractor crushes car <a href="https://t.co/5ECfNfWHOF">pic.twitter.com/5ECfNfWHOF</a>
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The person driving the tractor was identified as 19-year-old Tyler Sowerby, who hit the car of William Davis with his tractor last September. While the car got destroyed, Davis had managed to escape and sustained no serious injuries, reported <a href="https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-12161541/Moment-motorist-miraculously-escapes-drug-taking-tractor-driver-smashes-car-head-on.html#comments">Daily Mail</a>.

This week, Tyler Sowerby was brought before a court where he admitted t careless driving and driving under the influence of drugs. The prosecutor highlighted that Sowerby drove his tractor, which was towing a trailer loaded with grain, towards the car mowing it down completely, the report added.

The court heard that Davis thought the tractor would move back to its lane but it did not happen. “Thank goodness nobody was injured. I think this young man was taken to hospital, that was precautionary. The Honda driver was uninjured. It was not as serious as it could have been,” said Defence solicitor Duncan Campbell.

Sowerby was sentenced to eight-week of suspended imprisonment and was also ordered to complete rehabilitation by working for up to ten days with the probation service. Sowerby also received 60 hours of unpaid work along with a three-year driving ban.

The teenager was earlier involved in a drug-driving offence in February 2022. He was topped by the police and underwent a blood test that indicated that he had used cocaine over the legal permissible driving limit.

A teenager in the UK was sentenced to prison after he crushed a car with his tractor under the influence of drugs. The incident was caught on CCTV after which the video went viral on social media.

A teenager in the UK was sentenced to prison after he crushed a car with his tractor under the influence of drugs. The incident was caught on CCTV after which the video went viral on social media. The CCTV footage shows a tractor moving on a two-lane road as a car comes from the opposite direction. The tractor is then seen veering into the other lane and colliding with the car before flipping. The car driver tries to prevent the head-on collision by applying brakes but the vehicle is completely crushed under the tractor. Tractor crushes car pic.twitter.com/5ECfNfWHOF — Aussie Grind (@GrindAussie) September 28, 2022 × The person driving the tractor was identified as 19-year-old Tyler Sowerby, who hit the car of William Davis with his tractor last September. While the car got destroyed, Davis had managed to escape and sustained no serious injuries, reported Daily Mail. This week, Tyler Sowerby was brought before a court where he admitted t careless driving and driving under the influence of drugs. The prosecutor highlighted that Sowerby drove his tractor, which was towing a trailer loaded with grain, towards the car mowing it down completely, the report added. The court heard that Davis thought the tractor would move back to its lane but it did not happen. “Thank goodness nobody was injured. I think this young man was taken to hospital, that was precautionary. The Honda driver was uninjured. It was not as serious as it could have been,” said Defence solicitor Duncan Campbell. Sowerby was sentenced to eight-week of suspended imprisonment and was also ordered to complete rehabilitation by working for up to ten days with the probation service. Sowerby also received 60 hours of unpaid work along with a three-year driving ban. The teenager was earlier involved in a drug-driving offence in February 2022. He was topped by the police and underwent a blood test that indicated that he had used cocaine over the legal permissible driving limit.

Horrifying Visuals: Teenager crushes car with his tractor

A German court has given an 82-year-old man a "last warning"&nbsp;to avoid imprisonment after he was found guilty of drug dealing for yet another time.

The court announced its verdict after discovering that the man had already been convicted 24 times for committing the very same crime.

As per the AP reports, the retired seaman was handed a suspended sentence by a court in the northern town of Aurich on Monday.

The accused said that he wanted to improve his sparse monthly pension, which was around 800 euros ($855), by selling marijuana.

The prosecutors had asked the court to impose a jail term of a minimum of 34 months in view of the man's lengthy criminal record and an existing suspended sentence, AP cited German news agency dpa as saying.

But, according to the reports, the judges said that taking the man's recent health problems and particular circumstances into consideration, they would make an exception and classify the latest crimes as "less serious offences".

As per AP, dpa quoted the presiding judge as telling the accused that it was his “very last warning.”&nbsp;

<h2>Germany, Italy clamp down on notorious mafia group 'Ndrangheta'</h2>

Last month, German and Italian police arrested more than 100 members of the Italian ’Ndrangheta' organised crime syndicate as part of a "wide-scale" operation. In Germany, more than 1,000 officers searched dozens of homes, offices and stores across Bavaria, North Rhine-Westphalia, Rhineland-Palatinate and Thuringia. Operations also took place in Belgium, France, Italy, Portugal and Spain.

Calabria-based 'Ndrangheta' is regarded as the world's richest organised crime group and European authorities have been waging a war against it for years. The mafia group has managed to earn revenues in excess of tens of billions of dollars by selling cocaine over the decades.&nbsp;

Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-biggest-ever-drug-haul-officials-seize-15000-blots-busts-dark-net-ring-of-drug-traffickers-601283">&nbsp;India's biggest-ever drug haul: Officials seize 15,000 blots, busts 'dark net' ring of drug traffickers</a>

Police in Bavaria said the arrests made were the culmination of a three-year investigation effort codenamed Operation Eureka. Michael Ebling, State Interior Minister of Rhineland-Palatinate, said the arrests were an "effective blow" to organised crime.

“Today sends out a very clear signal: There is no place for organised crime in Europe and there is certainly no place for it here with us in Rhineland-Palatinate,” Ebling was quoted as saying by dpa.

<h2>Ndrangheta's genesis</h2>

The mafia group's genesis dates back to the 18th century. Unlike most modern-day mafia groups, members of 'Ndrangheta' still follow ancient rites which are passed down orally and through secret codes. To avoid the clutches of&nbsp;law enforcement agencies, the group members avoid speaking on phones entirely, opting to drive hundreds of miles for a meeting.

It consists of autonomous clans known as 'ndrine' which are based almost exclusively on blood ties. It has a monopoly on drug trafficking in Europe and also deals in arms trafficking, money laundering, racketeering, extortion, loan sharking, and prostitution.

(With inputs from agencies) 
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A German court has given an 82-year-old man a "last warning" to avoid imprisonment after he was found guilty of drug dealing for yet another time. The court announced its verdict after discovering that the man had already been convicted 24 times for committing the very same crime.

A German court has given an 82-year-old man a "last warning" to avoid imprisonment after he was found guilty of drug dealing for yet another time. The court announced its verdict after discovering that the man had already been convicted 24 times for committing the very same crime. As per the AP reports, the retired seaman was handed a suspended sentence by a court in the northern town of Aurich on Monday. The accused said that he wanted to improve his sparse monthly pension, which was around 800 euros ($855), by selling marijuana. The prosecutors had asked the court to impose a jail term of a minimum of 34 months in view of the man's lengthy criminal record and an existing suspended sentence, AP cited German news agency dpa as saying. But, according to the reports, the judges said that taking the man's recent health problems and particular circumstances into consideration, they would make an exception and classify the latest crimes as "less serious offences". As per AP, dpa quoted the presiding judge as telling the accused that it was his “very last warning.” Germany, Italy clamp down on notorious mafia group 'Ndrangheta' Last month, German and Italian police arrested more than 100 members of the Italian ’Ndrangheta' organised crime syndicate as part of a "wide-scale" operation. In Germany, more than 1,000 officers searched dozens of homes, offices and stores across Bavaria, North Rhine-Westphalia, Rhineland-Palatinate and Thuringia. Operations also took place in Belgium, France, Italy, Portugal and Spain. Calabria-based 'Ndrangheta' is regarded as the world's richest organised crime group and European authorities have been waging a war against it for years. The mafia group has managed to earn revenues in excess of tens of billions of dollars by selling cocaine over the decades. Also read: India's biggest-ever drug haul: Officials seize 15,000 blots, busts 'dark net' ring of drug traffickers Police in Bavaria said the arrests made were the culmination of a three-year investigation effort codenamed Operation Eureka. Michael Ebling, State Interior Minister of Rhineland-Palatinate, said the arrests were an "effective blow" to organised crime. “Today sends out a very clear signal: There is no place for organised crime in Europe and there is certainly no place for it here with us in Rhineland-Palatinate,” Ebling was quoted as saying by dpa. Ndrangheta's genesis The mafia group's genesis dates back to the 18th century. Unlike most modern-day mafia groups, members of 'Ndrangheta' still follow ancient rites which are passed down orally and through secret codes. To avoid the clutches of law enforcement agencies, the group members avoid speaking on phones entirely, opting to drive hundreds of miles for a meeting. It consists of autonomous clans known as 'ndrine' which are based almost exclusively on blood ties. It has a monopoly on drug trafficking in Europe and also deals in arms trafficking, money laundering, racketeering, extortion, loan sharking, and prostitution. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

German court gives 'last warning' to 82-year-old drug dealer already convicted 24 times

"Carlos," a 36-year-old coca grower in Colombia, is stuck hanging onto kilos of the valuable paste used to make cocaine stashed under his bed.

Normally, the illegal cache would be worth thousands of dollars, but a sudden dearth of buyers has&nbsp;left him high and dry and concerned about the future of his children.

Carlos is not his real name -- the grower wished to remain anonymous for fear of reprisals from armed groups operating near his farm in Llorente in Colombia's southern Narino department, where increasing numbers of small-scale coca producers worry where their next meal will come from.

Their hands covered in scratches, groups of "raspachines" or expert coca pickers, advance at great speed through the sea of green crops in Llorente.

Once harvested, the coca leaves reach Carlos, who cooks them, along with a mixture of chemicals, on a small stove until they yield a white substance.&nbsp;

Cultivating his two hectares had cost him about $660, Carlos told AFP, and normally he would be able to sell the product for about $4,000.

But with a dip in demand and historically low prices, he has so far sold only $154's worth. At the end of the trading chain, the cocaine made with his paste would be worth millions.

"Prices are (very) bad," Carlos told AFP in his small, makeshift lab.&nbsp;

"The only option is to keep it (the paste)," in the hopes that prices, and demand, will pick up.

<h2>Illegal, but crucial&nbsp;</h2>

Experts say the rise of synthetic opioids such as fentanyl, an "overproduction" of coca, changing consumer habits and several recent blows to Colombia's powerful drug cartels could all be contributing to the price drop.

Colombia remains the world's largest producer of cocaine -- of which coca is the main ingredient -- and the United States its biggest buyer.

Coca cultivation is illegal, but a mainstay for many in the South American country of 50 million people.

Some 250,000 Colombian families depend on coca for a living -- about 1.5 per cent of the population, according to official figures.&nbsp;

All along the country's Pacific coast, however, coca growers have seen their incomes plummet since the beginning of the year.

The region, under the yoke of armed and violent dissidents of the FARC guerrilla group that disarmed in 2017, is where about 44 per cent of Colombia's 204,000 hectares of coca was grown in 2021, according to the UN.

"At this time, the coca economy is not yielding a lot to survive on," grower Nilson Solis told AFP among his crops outside the town of Olaya Herrera, also near the Pacific coast.&nbsp;

Residents say the price for a kilogram of coca paste has dropped from about $695 to $440 in just a few months.

<h2>'Not a lot'</h2>

It appears ironic that growers are struggling: Colombia broke its own record of land under coca cultivation two years ago, according to the latest available UN report.

Colombian government official Felipe Tascon said rising conflict between drug cartels and other armed groups fighting over resources and terrain may have made it more difficult to move product.

Julian Quintero, head of an NGO working to reduce risk from psychoactive drug use, said "overproduction" is also likely contributing to the drop in demand.

Coca has ever more "alkalinity and yield," which means less of it is needed to produce cocaine, he said.

And Rival drugs such as ecstasy are gaining ground among younger pleasure seekers, Quintero added.

Colombia's new leftist President Gustavo Petro visited Olaya Herrera this month, where he met community leaders and speculated that lower demand may also have to do "with the fact that Americans have changed their consumption, their tastes."&nbsp;

Synthetic opioids such as fentanyl, more powerful and addictive than cocaine, are proliferating in the United States.&nbsp;

Petro has criticised the US-led "war on drugs" that has criminalised and impoverished rural Colombians, and has mooted an amnesty for drug traffickers willing to give themselves up and abandon the trade.

He has also proposed purchasing arable land to redistribute to small farmers to make a living from legal crops, free from the violent yoke of the drug gangs they rely on to make a living.

Meanwhile, farmers like Solis are looking for alternatives as hunger stares more and more coca growers in the face. He is considering taking up illegal logging.

"When we take stock, we have nothing left," he told AFP.&nbsp;

"Barely enough to buy a pound of rice and a little oil."

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"Carlos," a 36-year-old coca grower in Colombia, is stuck hanging onto kilos of the valuable paste used to make cocaine stashed under his bed. Normally, the illegal cache would be worth thousands of dollars, but a sudden dearth of buyers has left him high and dry and concerned about the future of his children.

"Carlos," a 36-year-old coca grower in Colombia, is stuck hanging onto kilos of the valuable paste used to make cocaine stashed under his bed. Normally, the illegal cache would be worth thousands of dollars, but a sudden dearth of buyers has left him high and dry and concerned about the future of his children. Carlos is not his real name -- the grower wished to remain anonymous for fear of reprisals from armed groups operating near his farm in Llorente in Colombia's southern Narino department, where increasing numbers of small-scale coca producers worry where their next meal will come from. Their hands covered in scratches, groups of "raspachines" or expert coca pickers, advance at great speed through the sea of green crops in Llorente. Once harvested, the coca leaves reach Carlos, who cooks them, along with a mixture of chemicals, on a small stove until they yield a white substance. Cultivating his two hectares had cost him about $660, Carlos told AFP, and normally he would be able to sell the product for about $4,000. But with a dip in demand and historically low prices, he has so far sold only $154's worth. At the end of the trading chain, the cocaine made with his paste would be worth millions. "Prices are (very) bad," Carlos told AFP in his small, makeshift lab. "The only option is to keep it (the paste)," in the hopes that prices, and demand, will pick up. Illegal, but crucial Experts say the rise of synthetic opioids such as fentanyl, an "overproduction" of coca, changing consumer habits and several recent blows to Colombia's powerful drug cartels could all be contributing to the price drop. Colombia remains the world's largest producer of cocaine -- of which coca is the main ingredient -- and the United States its biggest buyer. Coca cultivation is illegal, but a mainstay for many in the South American country of 50 million people. Some 250,000 Colombian families depend on coca for a living -- about 1.5 per cent of the population, according to official figures. All along the country's Pacific coast, however, coca growers have seen their incomes plummet since the beginning of the year. The region, under the yoke of armed and violent dissidents of the FARC guerrilla group that disarmed in 2017, is where about 44 per cent of Colombia's 204,000 hectares of coca was grown in 2021, according to the UN. "At this time, the coca economy is not yielding a lot to survive on," grower Nilson Solis told AFP among his crops outside the town of Olaya Herrera, also near the Pacific coast. Residents say the price for a kilogram of coca paste has dropped from about $695 to $440 in just a few months. 'Not a lot' It appears ironic that growers are struggling: Colombia broke its own record of land under coca cultivation two years ago, according to the latest available UN report. Colombian government official Felipe Tascon said rising conflict between drug cartels and other armed groups fighting over resources and terrain may have made it more difficult to move product. Julian Quintero, head of an NGO working to reduce risk from psychoactive drug use, said "overproduction" is also likely contributing to the drop in demand. Coca has ever more "alkalinity and yield," which means less of it is needed to produce cocaine, he said. And Rival drugs such as ecstasy are gaining ground among younger pleasure seekers, Quintero added. Colombia's new leftist President Gustavo Petro visited Olaya Herrera this month, where he met community leaders and speculated that lower demand may also have to do "with the fact that Americans have changed their consumption, their tastes." Synthetic opioids such as fentanyl, more powerful and addictive than cocaine, are proliferating in the United States. Petro has criticised the US-led "war on drugs" that has criminalised and impoverished rural Colombians, and has mooted an amnesty for drug traffickers willing to give themselves up and abandon the trade. He has also proposed purchasing arable land to redistribute to small farmers to make a living from legal crops, free from the violent yoke of the drug gangs they rely on to make a living. Meanwhile, farmers like Solis are looking for alternatives as hunger stares more and more coca growers in the face. He is considering taking up illegal logging. "When we take stock, we have nothing left," he told AFP. "Barely enough to buy a pound of rice and a little oil." WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Cocaine price crash a blow for Colombian coca growers

A few months back, a terrifying new 'zombie' drug ravaged cities across the United States. Doctors were perplexed by a new medication that was being sold on the streets. Xylazine, a “flesh-eating” drug turns the users into zombie-like beings. Flesh-eating ‘zombie’ drug that has ravaged US cities reaches the UK.

Flesh-eating ‘zombie’ drug that has ravaged US cities reaches the UK

The Australian Federal Police (AFP) has&nbsp;discovered over 300 kg of methamphetamine worth $273 million concealed deep inside a steel hydraulic press that was smuggled into New South Wales from Mexico. The officials added that this methamphetamine could have made up approximately 3 million individual street deals, the force said in a press release.&nbsp;

The importation originally arrived on April 18 and the AFP&nbsp;is now trying to identify the transactional crime syndicate behind the elaborated importation, Guardian reported.

The suspicions were raised after the Australian Border Force officers examined the consignment at the container examination facility in Syndey due to the density of steel. After this when the ABF&nbsp;drilled into the core of the hydraulic press, they found a white substance deep inside the machinery, which gave a positive result for methamphetamine.&nbsp;

A total of 79 blocks of meth were found secreted inside two lea-lined tubs after the machinery was pulled apart.

What is Methamphetamine?

This is a powerful and highly addictive stimulant that affects one's nervous system. It can be consumed through smoking, snorting and even injecting powder dissolved in water and alcohol.

Its short-term effects include increased wakefulness and physical activity, decreased appetite, faster breathing and irregular heartbeat. However, its long-term effects include extreme weight loss, addiction, and several dental and skin problems like intense itching leading to skin sores.&nbsp;

Probe on

Salam Zreika, an AFP&nbsp;detective sergeant said that only a well-established organised crime syndicate could have financed and managed such an "elaborated scheme."

He said, "Retrieving the drugs from this concealment in Australia would require significant resources, expertise and space, so someone in the community may have heard something that could help us to identify those involved locally."

He added that these current seizures clearly showed that the drug trafficking syndicates will always try to smuggle illicit drugs into Australia for their own benefit.&nbsp;

Zreika also mentioned that methamphetamine causes immense harm. As per official data of 2020-21, an average&nbsp;of 33 people in Australia were hospitalised each day for meth drug-related incidents.&nbsp;

The federal agency has been working with law enforcement partners locally and overseas to investigate the matter locally and overseas to determine the origins of the drugs and criminals behind the illegal importations.

(with inputs from agencies)

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The Australian Federal Police (AFP) has discovered over 300 kg of methamphetamine worth $273 million concealed deep inside a steel hydraulic press that was smuggled into New South Wales from Mexico.

The Australian Federal Police (AFP) has discovered over 300 kg of methamphetamine worth $273 million concealed deep inside a steel hydraulic press that was smuggled into New South Wales from Mexico. The officials added that this methamphetamine could have made up approximately 3 million individual street deals, the force said in a press release. The importation originally arrived on April 18 and the AFP is now trying to identify the transactional crime syndicate behind the elaborated importation, Guardian reported. The suspicions were raised after the Australian Border Force officers examined the consignment at the container examination facility in Syndey due to the density of steel. After this when the ABF drilled into the core of the hydraulic press, they found a white substance deep inside the machinery, which gave a positive result for methamphetamine. A total of 79 blocks of meth were found secreted inside two lea-lined tubs after the machinery was pulled apart. What is Methamphetamine? This is a powerful and highly addictive stimulant that affects one's nervous system. It can be consumed through smoking, snorting and even injecting powder dissolved in water and alcohol. Its short-term effects include increased wakefulness and physical activity, decreased appetite, faster breathing and irregular heartbeat. However, its long-term effects include extreme weight loss, addiction, and several dental and skin problems like intense itching leading to skin sores. Probe on Salam Zreika, an AFP detective sergeant said that only a well-established organised crime syndicate could have financed and managed such an "elaborated scheme." He said, "Retrieving the drugs from this concealment in Australia would require significant resources, expertise and space, so someone in the community may have heard something that could help us to identify those involved locally." He added that these current seizures clearly showed that the drug trafficking syndicates will always try to smuggle illicit drugs into Australia for their own benefit. Zreika also mentioned that methamphetamine causes immense harm. As per official data of 2020-21, an average of 33 people in Australia were hospitalised each day for meth drug-related incidents. The federal agency has been working with law enforcement partners locally and overseas to investigate the matter locally and overseas to determine the origins of the drugs and criminals behind the illegal importations. (with inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Australian Federal Police finds 79 blocks of Mexican meth worth $273mn in hydraulic press during inspection

A Breaking Bad-style meth manufacturing lab was busted in Greater Noida in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh. As many as nine Africans were arrested and 46 kg of methamphetamine worth $23 million was seized during the raid.

46kg of Methamphetamine worth over $23 million seized in India

Fentanyl is the major contributor to fatal and non-fatal overdoses in the US. The powerful synthetic opioid causes most deaths of US drug users aged 18-49. As the country continues to battle the Fentanyl crisis, WION's Harshit Sabarwal tells you what is the story of this drug and who is behind its trafficking? Watch the first episode of DARK WORLD, a WION web series on global crime.

Fentanyl overdose crisis in USA: An American drug epidemic | Dark World

Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said on Monday (May 8) that a major drug smuggler was killed in an airstrike in southern Syria. The war monitor attributed the airstrike to Jordan which has neither confirmed nor denied this.

Drug dealer "Marai al-Ramthan, his wife and six children were killed in a Jordanian air force strike" in the eastern countryside of the Sweida province, near the Syrian-Jordanian border, the Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said.&nbsp;

"Ramthan is considered to be the most prominent drug trafficker in the region, and the number one smuggler of drugs, including captagon, into Jordan", said the Observatory, which relies on a wide network of sources inside Syria.&nbsp;

Jordanian Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi was asked about the airstrike by reporters.

"When we take any steps to protect our national security... we will announce them at the appropriate time," he said.

"Drugs... are a great threat to the kingdom, the region and the world as smuggling operations soar," Safadi said.&nbsp;

News agency AFP said that an investigation it carried out in November found that Syria has become a narco-state, with the $10 billion captagon industry dwarfing all other exports and funding both Assad and many of his enemies.&nbsp;

These narcotics are mainly smuggled to oil-rich Gulf countries, says AFP. But Jordan has also become a transit route for trade in the amphetamine-type stimulant.

An activist in Sweida province with knowledge of the local drug trade told AFP that "we expect to see a noticeable impact on smuggling operations from Sweida after the strike."&nbsp;

"No one could smuggle anything across the border without Ramthan's knowledge," he said, requesting anonymity for his own security.&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/syria-returns-to-arab-league-after-11-long-years-590000">Syria returns to Arab League after 12 long years</a>

The activist reportedly added that since the airstrike took place, some traffickers in the area have fled their homes.

The rare attack comes on the heels of a May 1 meeting of several Arab foreign ministers in Amman in which Damascus had agreed to "enhance cooperation" with countries "affected by drug trafficking and smuggling across the Syrian border", a Jordanian foreign ministry statement said.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said on Monday (May 8) that a major drug smuggler was killed in an airstrike in southern Syria. The war monitor attributed the airstrike to Jordan which has neither confirmed nor denied this.

Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said on Monday (May 8) that a major drug smuggler was killed in an airstrike in southern Syria. The war monitor attributed the airstrike to Jordan which has neither confirmed nor denied this. Drug dealer "Marai al-Ramthan, his wife and six children were killed in a Jordanian air force strike" in the eastern countryside of the Sweida province, near the Syrian-Jordanian border, the Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said. "Ramthan is considered to be the most prominent drug trafficker in the region, and the number one smuggler of drugs, including captagon, into Jordan", said the Observatory, which relies on a wide network of sources inside Syria. Jordanian Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi was asked about the airstrike by reporters. "When we take any steps to protect our national security... we will announce them at the appropriate time," he said. "Drugs... are a great threat to the kingdom, the region and the world as smuggling operations soar," Safadi said. News agency AFP said that an investigation it carried out in November found that Syria has become a narco-state, with the $10 billion captagon industry dwarfing all other exports and funding both Assad and many of his enemies. These narcotics are mainly smuggled to oil-rich Gulf countries, says AFP. But Jordan has also become a transit route for trade in the amphetamine-type stimulant. An activist in Sweida province with knowledge of the local drug trade told AFP that "we expect to see a noticeable impact on smuggling operations from Sweida after the strike." "No one could smuggle anything across the border without Ramthan's knowledge," he said, requesting anonymity for his own security. Also Read | Syria returns to Arab League after 12 long years The activist reportedly added that since the airstrike took place, some traffickers in the area have fled their homes. The rare attack comes on the heels of a May 1 meeting of several Arab foreign ministers in Amman in which Damascus had agreed to "enhance cooperation" with countries "affected by drug trafficking and smuggling across the Syrian border", a Jordanian foreign ministry statement said. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Airstrike kills major drug trafficker in Syria: War monitor

Jerry Martin, a 51-year-old Canadian, was detained in British Columbia for starting a mobile shop to sell cocaine, heroin, and other dangerous substances. In court, he has stated he intends to contest his arrest on the grounds that drug supplies cause harm. The arrest took place on Thursday, a day after Martin started his store.

Police in Vancouver claimed to have detained a guy for "drug trafficking in connection with an illicit drug dispensary". However, no official charges have yet been filed against him.&nbsp;

WATCH | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-dramatic-visuals-as-truck-driver-rescued-in-kenya-after-sudden-floods-589502">Dramatic visuals as truck driver rescued in Kenya after sudden floods</a>

On Wednesday, he started a portable shop that was parked on Vancouver's Downtown Eastside, a place with a high prevalence of drug use and a lot of drug overdose prevention programmes.

Health Canada decriminalised the possession of small amounts of hard drugs in the province of British Columbia (BC) early this year as part of a three-year trial experiment. Martin, whose brother died from an overdose, said he had intended to establish his store.

The public health measure was proposed in response to an increase in the number of fentanyl-laced drug overdose deaths in western Canada. More than 2,720 individuals in British Columbia died from overdoses in 2022. It is seven people on average every day.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/onus-on-india-to-restart-peace-talks-pak-fm-bilawal-bhutto-589483">Onus on India to restart peace talks: Pak FM Bilawal Bhutto Zardari</a>

In an effort to stop more fatalities, Martin told local media sources that he intended to distribute batches of cocaine, methamphetamine, heroin, and crack in little doses, up to 2.5 grammes. He said that fentanyl content had been checked during testing.

In a statement, Constable Tania Visintin said Vancouver police "support measures aimed at improving public safety for people who use drugs, including harm reduction services and decriminalisation."

Watch | Srinagar gears up to host G20 summit | Inside South Asia: part 2

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Numerous people had reportedly queued up outside Martin's mobile store on Wednesday afternoon to purchase drugs, according to the CBC. Although Martin's name was not mentioned in the police news release announcing the arrest, it received extensive coverage in Canadian media. 
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Jerry Martin, a 51-year-old Canadian, was detained in British Columbia for starting a mobile shop to sell cocaine, heroin, and other dangerous substances. In court, he has stated he intends to contest his arrest on the grounds that drug supplies cause harm.

Jerry Martin, a 51-year-old Canadian, was detained in British Columbia for starting a mobile shop to sell cocaine, heroin, and other dangerous substances. In court, he has stated he intends to contest his arrest on the grounds that drug supplies cause harm. The arrest took place on Thursday, a day after Martin started his store. Police in Vancouver claimed to have detained a guy for "drug trafficking in connection with an illicit drug dispensary". However, no official charges have yet been filed against him. WATCH | Dramatic visuals as truck driver rescued in Kenya after sudden floods On Wednesday, he started a portable shop that was parked on Vancouver's Downtown Eastside, a place with a high prevalence of drug use and a lot of drug overdose prevention programmes. Health Canada decriminalised the possession of small amounts of hard drugs in the province of British Columbia (BC) early this year as part of a three-year trial experiment. Martin, whose brother died from an overdose, said he had intended to establish his store. The public health measure was proposed in response to an increase in the number of fentanyl-laced drug overdose deaths in western Canada. More than 2,720 individuals in British Columbia died from overdoses in 2022. It is seven people on average every day. Also Read | Onus on India to restart peace talks: Pak FM Bilawal Bhutto Zardari In an effort to stop more fatalities, Martin told local media sources that he intended to distribute batches of cocaine, methamphetamine, heroin, and crack in little doses, up to 2.5 grammes. He said that fentanyl content had been checked during testing. In a statement, Constable Tania Visintin said Vancouver police "support measures aimed at improving public safety for people who use drugs, including harm reduction services and decriminalisation." Watch | Srinagar gears up to host G20 summit | Inside South Asia: part 2 × Numerous people had reportedly queued up outside Martin's mobile store on Wednesday afternoon to purchase drugs, according to the CBC. Although Martin's name was not mentioned in the police news release announcing the arrest, it received extensive coverage in Canadian media. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Canadian man detained in British Columbia for opening shop selling hard drugs

India's Border security Force has recovered packets of heroin at 2 different locations in Punjab. Molly Gambhir tells you how Pakistan is pushing drugs into

Gravitas | Exposing Pakistan's illicit narcotics trade

Researchers in Los Angeles have for the first time found bacteria that is highly resistant to colistin, considered to be the “last resort” antibiotic, in the US county’s wastewaters.&nbsp;

The discovery was made while surveilling the untreated waters of Los Angeles’ largest treatment plants—the Joint Water Pollution Control Plant in Carson and the Hyperion Water Reclamation Plant in Playa del Rey— a practice that began following Covid pandemic.&nbsp;

Both facilities serve a total of about 7.5 million people, the Los Angeles Times&nbsp;newspaper reported.&nbsp;

It has alarmed scientists as this antibiotic—for which evidence of resistance has been found—is used when all other drugs, especially penicillin, fail to respond.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“Testing found antibiotic resistance genes on two novel small plasmids, circular pieces of DNA that can be shared among different types of unrelated bacteria,” said researcher Adam Smith, associate professor of environmental engineering at USC,&nbsp;whose findings were published&nbsp;in Environmental Science &amp; Technology Letters.&nbsp;

“This is probably the scariest aspect: the potential for this resistance to spread widely across different bacterial populations,” Smith said.&nbsp;

He noted that this type of antibiotic resistant gene has been found in "six&nbsp;of seven continents",&nbsp;but this is the first time that traces of this antibiotic resistance have been found in LA.&nbsp;

<h2>Iran successfully tests homemade kamikaze drone equipped with 50 kg warhead</h2>

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<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo">According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), antibiotic resistance is one of the major threats to global health, food security, and development.&nbsp;</div>

Although it occurs naturally, misuse of antibiotics in humans and animals is believed to be triggering the process.&nbsp;

The global health agency noted that it is becoming difficult to treat a growing number of infections, such as pneumonia, tuberculosis, gonorrhea, and salmonellosis, as antibotics are becoming less effective.&nbsp;

“We could get to the point where we can’t combat infections with antibiotics,” Smith said, “so we’re entering sort of a post-antibiotic world.”&nbsp;

What’s particularly concerning is that antibiotic resistance leads to longer hospital stays, higher medical costs and increased mortality.&nbsp;

Colistin was originally discovered in 2015 in China and has been documented on every continent except Antarctica, Smith said. &nbsp;

That includes in Los Angeles, where a resident who died in 2016&nbsp;was found to have been infected with&nbsp;E. coli&nbsp;bacteria&nbsp;that carried a colistin resistance gene.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

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Researchers in Los Angeles have for the first time found bacteria that is highly resistant to colistin, considered to be the “last resort” antibiotic, in the US county’s wastewaters.

Researchers in Los Angeles have for the first time found bacteria that is highly resistant to colistin, considered to be the “last resort” antibiotic, in the US county’s wastewaters. The discovery was made while surveilling the untreated waters of Los Angeles’ largest treatment plants—the Joint Water Pollution Control Plant in Carson and the Hyperion Water Reclamation Plant in Playa del Rey— a practice that began following Covid pandemic. Both facilities serve a total of about 7.5 million people, the Los Angeles Times newspaper reported. It has alarmed scientists as this antibiotic—for which evidence of resistance has been found—is used when all other drugs, especially penicillin, fail to respond. “Testing found antibiotic resistance genes on two novel small plasmids, circular pieces of DNA that can be shared among different types of unrelated bacteria,” said researcher Adam Smith, associate professor of environmental engineering at USC, whose findings were published in Environmental Science & Technology Letters. “This is probably the scariest aspect: the potential for this resistance to spread widely across different bacterial populations,” Smith said. He noted that this type of antibiotic resistant gene has been found in "six of seven continents", but this is the first time that traces of this antibiotic resistance have been found in LA. Iran successfully tests homemade kamikaze drone equipped with 50 kg warhead According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), antibiotic resistance is one of the major threats to global health, food security, and development. Although it occurs naturally, misuse of antibiotics in humans and animals is believed to be triggering the process. The global health agency noted that it is becoming difficult to treat a growing number of infections, such as pneumonia, tuberculosis, gonorrhea, and salmonellosis, as antibotics are becoming less effective. “We could get to the point where we can’t combat infections with antibiotics,” Smith said, “so we’re entering sort of a post-antibiotic world.” What’s particularly concerning is that antibiotic resistance leads to longer hospital stays, higher medical costs and increased mortality. Colistin was originally discovered in 2015 in China and has been documented on every continent except Antarctica, Smith said. That includes in Los Angeles, where a resident who died in 2016 was found to have been infected with E. coli bacteria that carried a colistin resistance gene. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Bacteria resistant to 'last resort' antibiotic found in Los Angeles for first time  

In recent years, the drug Fentanyl has fuelled a surge in US Opioid overdose deaths. A potent synthetic opioid drug, Fentanyl is approximately 100 times more potent than morphine and 50 times more potent than heroin as an analgesic.

Fentanyl, 50x more potent than heroin as an analgesic | 'U.S. & India working to fix the problem'

In New Zealand, police have seized large quantities of drug-laced beer containing methamphetamine. As per a report by the New Zealand Herald, authorities have so far seized around 328kg of meth or methamphetamine. The police also seized a shipment of kombucha bottles — a popular fermented tea — along with the drug-laced beer.&nbsp;As per the report, police on March 16th raided a warehouse in Ryan Pl in Manukau (a suburb of South Auckland). There they located and seized multiple cases of potentially drug-laced beer.&nbsp;The beer is of a brand called Honey Beer and is called 'Honey Bear House beer'.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/watch-massive-hole-on-sun-may-blast-solar-storms-towards-earth-577586">Watch | Massive 'hole' on Sun may blast solar storms towards Earth</a>

There is a possibility that some cans of the laced beer may be circulating in the community. Keeping this in mind, police have issued an advisory that anyone who may have the 'Honey Bear House Beer' cans should avoid drinking them and should inform the police. "Consuming beer contaminated with methamphetamine may have serious or fatal medical consequences," warned&nbsp;Detective Inspector Glenn Baldwin.

Concealed among the shipment was the 328kg of meth. The police said that an analysis of the meth found in its liquid form is underway. More than a quarter tonne of the drug was also recovered in crystallised form.

This comes as Auckland City’s Organised Crime Unit investigates the import of Honey Bear House Beer suspected of being contaminated with methamphetamine.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/plants-can-make-cries-for-help-when-stressed-or-deprived-of-water-says-study-577976">Plants make cries for help when stressed or deprived of water, says study</a>

On March 7th, in Auckland, a young man named Aiden Sagala reportedly died after consuming meth-laced beer. While Sangala, as per the police, was not involved in the import or distribution of the contaminated beer "in any way," as per the Herald, two men have been arrested for this.&nbsp;

The report goes on to cite Detective Inspector Glenn Baldwin, who said that the investigation "is by no means over yet."&nbsp;

"Our investigation continues to develop at pace, and we cannot rule out further arrests or charges as a result," he added.

(With inputs from agencies)

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In New Zealand, police have seized large quantities of drug-laced beer containing methamphetamine. As per a report by the New Zealand Herald, authorities have so far seized around 328kg of meth or methamphetamine.

In New Zealand, police have seized large quantities of drug-laced beer containing methamphetamine. As per a report by the New Zealand Herald, authorities have so far seized around 328kg of meth or methamphetamine. The police also seized a shipment of kombucha bottles — a popular fermented tea — along with the drug-laced beer. As per the report, police on March 16th raided a warehouse in Ryan Pl in Manukau (a suburb of South Auckland). There they located and seized multiple cases of potentially drug-laced beer. The beer is of a brand called Honey Beer and is called 'Honey Bear House beer'. Also read | Watch | Massive 'hole' on Sun may blast solar storms towards Earth There is a possibility that some cans of the laced beer may be circulating in the community. Keeping this in mind, police have issued an advisory that anyone who may have the 'Honey Bear House Beer' cans should avoid drinking them and should inform the police. "Consuming beer contaminated with methamphetamine may have serious or fatal medical consequences," warned Detective Inspector Glenn Baldwin. Concealed among the shipment was the 328kg of meth. The police said that an analysis of the meth found in its liquid form is underway. More than a quarter tonne of the drug was also recovered in crystallised form. This comes as Auckland City’s Organised Crime Unit investigates the import of Honey Bear House Beer suspected of being contaminated with methamphetamine. Also read | Plants make cries for help when stressed or deprived of water, says study On March 7th, in Auckland, a young man named Aiden Sagala reportedly died after consuming meth-laced beer. While Sangala, as per the police, was not involved in the import or distribution of the contaminated beer "in any way," as per the Herald, two men have been arrested for this. The report goes on to cite Detective Inspector Glenn Baldwin, who said that the investigation "is by no means over yet." "Our investigation continues to develop at pace, and we cannot rule out further arrests or charges as a result," he added. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

New Zealand: Kiwis warned to avoid meth-laced 'Honey Bear House Beer' cans

Seoul said in a report on Thursday (March 30) that North Korea executes people for drugs, sharing South Korean media, and religious activities as it stifles its citizens' human rights and freedom.&nbsp;

South Korea's Unification Ministry has collated the report, basing the 450-page report on testimony and information gathered from 2017 to 2022 of over 500 North Koreans who fled from their homeland.&nbsp;

The ministry, which is responsible for handling inter-Korean affairs, said in the report: "North Korean citizens' right to life appears to be greatly threatened."&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-jihadist-trades-his-weapons-to-open-sushi-restaurant-in-war-torn-syria-577244">Russian jihadist trades his weapons to open sushi restaurant in war-torn Syria</a>&nbsp;

"Executions are widely carried out for acts that do not justify the death penalty, including drug crimes, distribution of South Korean videos, and religious and superstitious activities," it added.&nbsp;

News agency Reuters reported that the findings aligned with the United Nations investigations and reports from non-governmental organisations.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Kim Jong-Un: Aim to defend North Korea against US and South Korea&nbsp;

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The report sheds light upon the rights abuses in communities, prison camps, etc., including public executions, torture and arbitrary arrests. Meanwhile, North Korea rejects the criticism of its rights conditions.&nbsp;

The ministry also claimed that deaths and torture regularly occur in detention facilities and some people were summarily executed after being caught trying to cross the border.&nbsp;

South Korea aims to highlight the North's efforts of boosting nuclear and missile arsenals, instead of improving the living conditions of common people. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
 
&nbsp;

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Seoul said in a report on Thursday (March 30) that North Korea executes people for drugs, sharing South Korean media, and religious activities as it stifles its citizens' human rights and freedom.

Seoul said in a report on Thursday (March 30) that North Korea executes people for drugs, sharing South Korean media, and religious activities as it stifles its citizens' human rights and freedom. South Korea's Unification Ministry has collated the report, basing the 450-page report on testimony and information gathered from 2017 to 2022 of over 500 North Koreans who fled from their homeland. The ministry, which is responsible for handling inter-Korean affairs, said in the report: "North Korean citizens' right to life appears to be greatly threatened." ALSO READ | Russian jihadist trades his weapons to open sushi restaurant in war-torn Syria "Executions are widely carried out for acts that do not justify the death penalty, including drug crimes, distribution of South Korean videos, and religious and superstitious activities," it added. News agency Reuters reported that the findings aligned with the United Nations investigations and reports from non-governmental organisations. WATCH | Kim Jong-Un: Aim to defend North Korea against US and South Korea × The report sheds light upon the rights abuses in communities, prison camps, etc., including public executions, torture and arbitrary arrests. Meanwhile, North Korea rejects the criticism of its rights conditions. The ministry also claimed that deaths and torture regularly occur in detention facilities and some people were summarily executed after being caught trying to cross the border. South Korea aims to highlight the North's efforts of boosting nuclear and missile arsenals, instead of improving the living conditions of common people. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Seoul claims North Korea executes people for sharing South Korean videos: Report

Renowned painter Pablo Picasso once called the smell of opium smoke "the most intelligent smell in the world". Rap artist Snoop Dogg is well known for his love for weed or marijuana and referring to his favourite vice has even reportedly said, "the more medicated, the more dedicated". Harry Styles' latest album 'Fine Line' was made under the influence of mushrooms that supposedly helped him be "fun and creative." Artists and their love for various drugs and alcohol is legendary. These legends have long been blamed for promoting psychedelics and intoxicants among the "easily influenced" younger generations. However, time and time again, artists have claimed that drugs and alcohol allegedly helped their creative juices flow. A new study has revealed the truth behind this and says the claim might just be a myth.

Researchers from England's Essex University and Berlin’s Humboldt University have reached this conclusion after examining hundreds of papers on intoxicants and their effects.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;China trains six squirrels to search for drugs

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The researchers concluded that the alleged help these drugs provide to aid the creative processes is likely to be a myth and that to inspire creativity, travel, exposure to culture, meditation and good old hard work or training are more effective.&nbsp;

Jennifer Haase of the Humboldt University, a co-author of the paper as per Guardian, said that "ideas generated under the influence often seem disjointed or ill-suited as solutions later on."&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/countries-high-on-happiness-index-also-report-increased-drug-use-575119">Countries high on happiness index also report increased drug use</a>

"Given the numerous side-effects associated with drug use, it is scientifically unsound to recommend their consumption in pursuit of enhanced creative output," added Haase.

Dr Paul Hanel, of the University of Essex's department of psychology, said that drugs do not do anything for creativity. "People don’t benefit from it – it just has no effect at all."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/ai-comes-up-with-40000-toxic-chemicals-in-6-hours-scientists-warn-could-be-used-to-make-biological-weapons-561636">AI comes up with 40,000 toxic chemicals in 6 hours; scientists warn could be used to make biological weapons</a>

However, Hanel acknowledged that, in some specific contexts, they might help enhance creativity. For example, someone under the effect of hallucinogenics might have an inspiring vision on their "trip" that enables them to paint a beautiful picture. But this is more of a once-in-a-blue-moon kind of experience and not a run-of-the-mill one.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Renowned painter Pablo Picasso once called the smell of opium smoke "the most intelligent smell in the world". Rap artist Snoop Dogg is well known for his love for weed or marijuana and referring to his favourite vice has even reportedly said, "the more medicated, the more dedicated".

Renowned painter Pablo Picasso once called the smell of opium smoke "the most intelligent smell in the world". Rap artist Snoop Dogg is well known for his love for weed or marijuana and referring to his favourite vice has even reportedly said, "the more medicated, the more dedicated". Harry Styles' latest album 'Fine Line' was made under the influence of mushrooms that supposedly helped him be "fun and creative." Artists and their love for various drugs and alcohol is legendary. These legends have long been blamed for promoting psychedelics and intoxicants among the "easily influenced" younger generations. However, time and time again, artists have claimed that drugs and alcohol allegedly helped their creative juices flow. A new study has revealed the truth behind this and says the claim might just be a myth. Researchers from England's Essex University and Berlin’s Humboldt University have reached this conclusion after examining hundreds of papers on intoxicants and their effects. Watch | China trains six squirrels to search for drugs The researchers concluded that the alleged help these drugs provide to aid the creative processes is likely to be a myth and that to inspire creativity, travel, exposure to culture, meditation and good old hard work or training are more effective. Jennifer Haase of the Humboldt University, a co-author of the paper as per Guardian, said that "ideas generated under the influence often seem disjointed or ill-suited as solutions later on." Also read | Countries high on happiness index also report increased drug use "Given the numerous side-effects associated with drug use, it is scientifically unsound to recommend their consumption in pursuit of enhanced creative output," added Haase. Dr Paul Hanel, of the University of Essex's department of psychology, said that drugs do not do anything for creativity. "People don’t benefit from it – it just has no effect at all." Also read | AI comes up with 40,000 toxic chemicals in 6 hours; scientists warn could be used to make biological weapons However, Hanel acknowledged that, in some specific contexts, they might help enhance creativity. For example, someone under the effect of hallucinogenics might have an inspiring vision on their "trip" that enables them to paint a beautiful picture. But this is more of a once-in-a-blue-moon kind of experience and not a run-of-the-mill one. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Do drugs, alcohol make us more creative? Study answers the age-old question

Scientists have revealed previously unreported effects of a compound called DMT (or dimethyltryptamine), the substance which, once consumed, produces extraordinary psychic effects on an individual. DMT is found in the Amazonian drink Ayahuasca, made from the flowering shrub of Psychotria viridis plant.&nbsp;

<h2>How the study was conducted?</h2>

For the latest study, Chris Timmermann, head of the DMT research group at Imperial College London, recruited 20 volunteers who received a 20mg injection of DMT and a placebo on separate visits to the lab. All were reportedly screened to ensure their physical and mental suitability for the study.&nbsp;

The scientists recorded the brain activity of the participants before, during and after the drug took hold of their bodies.&nbsp;

<h2>What do the results say?</h2>

The results were published in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences. They provide the most advanced picture yet of the human brain on psychedelics.&nbsp;

The recordings show how the brain’s normal hierarchical organisation breaks down, electrical activity becomes anarchic, and connectivity between regions soars, particularly those handling "higher level"&nbsp;functions such as imagination, which is scientifically proven to have evolved most recently in humans.&nbsp;

ALSO READ -&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-prince-harry-reveals-he-took-hallucinogenic-drugs-to-get-over-his-past-trauma-569516">Prince Harry reveals he took hallucinogenic drugs to get over his past trauma</a>

The recordings reveal a profound impact across the brain, particularly in areas that are highly evolved in humans and instrumental in planning, language, memory, complex decision-making and imagination.&nbsp;

"At the dose we use, it is incredibly potent," Robin Carhart-Harris, a professor of neurology and psychiatry at the University of California, San Francisco was quoted as saying by The Guardian. "People describe leaving this world and breaking through into another that is incredibly immersive and richly complex, sometimes being populated by other beings that they feel might hold special power over them, like gods."

He added: "What we have seen is that DMT breaks down the basic networks of the brain, causing them to become less distinct from each other. We also see the major rhythms of the brain – that serve a largely inhibitory, constraining function – break down, and in concert, brain activity becomes more entropic or information-rich."

ALSO WATCH -&nbsp;WION Fineprint | Magic Mushrooms can be safely used to treat depression, study finds

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But while the study revealed an unprecedented view of the brain on DMT, the researchers believe there is more to learn.

"We suspect that while the newer, more evolved aspects of the brain dysregulate under DMT, older systems in the brain may be disinhibited,"&nbsp;Carhart-Harris was further quoted as saying by The Guardian. "A similar kind of thing happens in dreaming. This is just the beginning in cracking the question of how DMT works to alter consciousness so dramatically."

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Scientists have revealed previously unreported effects of a compound called DMT (or dimethyltryptamine), the substance which, once consumed, produces extraordinary psychic effects on an individual.

Scientists have revealed previously unreported effects of a compound called DMT (or dimethyltryptamine), the substance which, once consumed, produces extraordinary psychic effects on an individual. DMT is found in the Amazonian drink Ayahuasca, made from the flowering shrub of Psychotria viridis plant. How the study was conducted? For the latest study, Chris Timmermann, head of the DMT research group at Imperial College London, recruited 20 volunteers who received a 20mg injection of DMT and a placebo on separate visits to the lab. All were reportedly screened to ensure their physical and mental suitability for the study. The scientists recorded the brain activity of the participants before, during and after the drug took hold of their bodies. What do the results say? The results were published in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences. They provide the most advanced picture yet of the human brain on psychedelics. The recordings show how the brain’s normal hierarchical organisation breaks down, electrical activity becomes anarchic, and connectivity between regions soars, particularly those handling "higher level" functions such as imagination, which is scientifically proven to have evolved most recently in humans. ALSO READ - Prince Harry reveals he took hallucinogenic drugs to get over his past trauma The recordings reveal a profound impact across the brain, particularly in areas that are highly evolved in humans and instrumental in planning, language, memory, complex decision-making and imagination. "At the dose we use, it is incredibly potent," Robin Carhart-Harris, a professor of neurology and psychiatry at the University of California, San Francisco was quoted as saying by The Guardian. "People describe leaving this world and breaking through into another that is incredibly immersive and richly complex, sometimes being populated by other beings that they feel might hold special power over them, like gods." He added: "What we have seen is that DMT breaks down the basic networks of the brain, causing them to become less distinct from each other. We also see the major rhythms of the brain – that serve a largely inhibitory, constraining function – break down, and in concert, brain activity becomes more entropic or information-rich." ALSO WATCH - WION Fineprint | Magic Mushrooms can be safely used to treat depression, study finds × But while the study revealed an unprecedented view of the brain on DMT, the researchers believe there is more to learn. "We suspect that while the newer, more evolved aspects of the brain dysregulate under DMT, older systems in the brain may be disinhibited," Carhart-Harris was further quoted as saying by The Guardian. "A similar kind of thing happens in dreaming. This is just the beginning in cracking the question of how DMT works to alter consciousness so dramatically." WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

'People leave this world and break through into another', study on effect of consuming a hallucinogenic drug

It is a public health crisis that kills hundreds of Americans a day. More than 100,000 Americans die each year from overdoses, mostly from opioids. Fentanyl, cocaine, methamphetamine and now xylazine are the most abused drugs in the United States.

Has America lost the war on drugs?

Squirrels have been trained in China to detect&nbsp;the presence of drugs at train stations, airports, warehouses, and border checkpoints.&nbsp;The police in the southwest city of Chongqing, over 1700 km southwest of the Chinese capital Beijing,&nbsp;say that they have trained the country’s first batch of six sniffer squirrels in an attempt to find a more feasible&nbsp;replacement for sniffer dogs.

"Squirrels have a quite acute sense of smell, but we didn’t have sniffer squirrels in the past because we didn’t have mature techniques to train rodents,” Yin Jin, a trainer of the local squad of police dogs, told a state-run news platform&nbsp;Shangyou News. He said that the authorities used the same training system they use to train sniffer dogs for similar operations.&nbsp;

<h2>Squirrels to replace dogs? But aren't dogs better at sniffing?</h2>

Dogs are considered conventionally better at sniffing than other animals, even rodents. But rodents such as squirrels are good at sniffing out drugs and related illicit substances with "complex environments" full of packages and tight corners, and they can reach spots that are high up, which the dogs cannot.&nbsp;

<h2>How will squirrels notify that drugs have been found?</h2>

Once a squirrel&nbsp;finds the suspect drugs, a trained squirrel will notify its trainer by scratching an&nbsp;object, Chinese anti-drugs police spokesperson said.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-drugs-worth-12-billion-seized-from-two-cities-former-pilot-among-six-arrested-523308">India: Drugs worth $1.2 billion seized from two cities, former pilot among six arrested</a>

It is not the first time authorities have tried to find an alternative to sniffer dogs. Police in the Netherlands in 2013 trained rats to sniff out drugs and gunpowder with a success rate of 95 per cent. In 1993 in America, the Department of Justice put on trial the&nbsp;use of pot-bellied pigs to sniff out narcotics.

<h2>China's anti-drugs campaign</h2>

China has a zero-tolerance policy on illicit drugs. Individuals convicted of drug crimes often face severe punishments, including death.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-medicine-shortage-humiliates-china-546183">Gravitas: Medicine Shortage 'humiliates' China</a>

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The country reportedly had nearly 1.5 million drug users at the end of 2021. China in 2021 solved more than 54,000 drug cases, arrested 77,000 suspects and seized 27 tonnes of drugs, according to the latest report on anti-drug efforts cited by The Times newspaper.&nbsp;

Squirrels have been trained in China to detect the presence of drugs at train stations, airports, warehouses, and border checkpoints. The police in the southwest city of Chongqing, over 1700 km southwest of the Chinese capital Beijing, say that they have trained the country’s first batch of six sniffer squirrels in an attempt to find a more feasible replacement for sniffer dogs.

Squirrels have been trained in China to detect the presence of drugs at train stations, airports, warehouses, and border checkpoints. The police in the southwest city of Chongqing, over 1700 km southwest of the Chinese capital Beijing, say that they have trained the country’s first batch of six sniffer squirrels in an attempt to find a more feasible replacement for sniffer dogs. "Squirrels have a quite acute sense of smell, but we didn’t have sniffer squirrels in the past because we didn’t have mature techniques to train rodents,” Yin Jin, a trainer of the local squad of police dogs, told a state-run news platform Shangyou News. He said that the authorities used the same training system they use to train sniffer dogs for similar operations. Squirrels to replace dogs? But aren't dogs better at sniffing? Dogs are considered conventionally better at sniffing than other animals, even rodents. But rodents such as squirrels are good at sniffing out drugs and related illicit substances with "complex environments" full of packages and tight corners, and they can reach spots that are high up, which the dogs cannot. How will squirrels notify that drugs have been found? Once a squirrel finds the suspect drugs, a trained squirrel will notify its trainer by scratching an object, Chinese anti-drugs police spokesperson said. ALSO READ | India: Drugs worth $1.2 billion seized from two cities, former pilot among six arrested It is not the first time authorities have tried to find an alternative to sniffer dogs. Police in the Netherlands in 2013 trained rats to sniff out drugs and gunpowder with a success rate of 95 per cent. In 1993 in America, the Department of Justice put on trial the use of pot-bellied pigs to sniff out narcotics. China's anti-drugs campaign China has a zero-tolerance policy on illicit drugs. Individuals convicted of drug crimes often face severe punishments, including death. ALSO WATCH | Gravitas: Medicine Shortage 'humiliates' China × The country reportedly had nearly 1.5 million drug users at the end of 2021. China in 2021 solved more than 54,000 drug cases, arrested 77,000 suspects and seized 27 tonnes of drugs, according to the latest report on anti-drug efforts cited by The Times newspaper.

In China, dogs lose their drugs sniffing jobs to squirrels trained for the task

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