POLICE are warning that they will take action against anyone found with mephedrone which became a banned Class B drug at a minute past midnight today (Friday). Anyone found in possession of mephedrone – also know as meph, meth, MCat, miaow and bounce, amo

POLICE are warning that they will take action against anyone found with mephedrone which became a banned Class B drug at a minute past midnight today (Friday).

Anyone found in possession of mephedrone - also know as meph, meth, MCat, miaow and bounce, amongst others - could face up to five years imprisonment. Anyone found supplying the drug could spend up to 14 years in prison.

Det Chief Insp Julie Wheatley, from the community safety unit at Hertfordshire Constabulary, said: "We want to ensure that people are well-informed on the penalties they could face if found in possession or supply of mephedrone, as well as the ways anyone with concerns about the drug - or indeed any other illegal substance - can find the advice and support they need.

"Mephedrone has had a high national profile, and I'd like to reassure Hertfordshire residents that we will be taking robust action against anyone found with this harmful substance and, as always, our top priority is to work with our partners to help keep communities across the county safe."

She added: "We are still building an intelligence picture for the potential use of this drug across the county and if anyone has any information about drug dealing or anything else that could help us tackle drugs crime, please call us on 0845 33 00 222. Alternatively you can call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111."

Rob Bacon, Hertfordshire County Council's policy and development manager for the young people's substance misuse and crime reduction service, said: "It's important that people have access to support and information about this highly harmful substance.

"Anyone taking mephedrone now not only risks their health, but their livelihood and reputation too. If anyone has any concerns about illegal substances, I would strongly urge them to contact one of the many support services we provide in Hertfordshire."

The 24-hour confidential support from the national drugs helpline FRANK is available on 0800 77 66 00 or visit www.talktofrank.com

A-DASH, which provides confidential, friendly advice and support to young people in Hertfordshire, is on 01923 427288 or text: 07770 537227.

For local, confidential advice for adults and families, contact Turning Point/Herts Reach on 0800 6523169.