Forensic scientists detect 27 new drugs in Ireland

Forensic scientists detected 27 new recreational drugs in Ireland this year, Forensic Science Ireland (FSI) has said.

The agency’s annual report highlighted the speed with which new synthetic drugs and psychoactive substances are being created.

FSI director Dr Sheila Willis said: “The speed with which new highly toxic synthetic drugs and psychoactive substances are being created overseas and made available for sale online is presenting new challenges for our scientists because these drugs are so new and unpredictable.

“They are up to 100 times more toxic than regular substances and so are highly dangerous. Our scientists are working closely with our international colleagues to ensure that we can quickly identify these new substances and help the gardaí in their efforts to secure convictions against guilty parties.”