DEALERS ACROSS THE COUNTRY ARE LACING CANNABIS WITH GLASS

And the trend has prompted a warning for people to be on their
guard.

Drug workers in Hartlepool have been placed on red alert to stifle any
contaminated drugs.

It follows national concerns about cannabis resin being peppered with
glass in order to bulk up its weight.

Chris Hart, of the Safer Hartlepool Partnership, said there has been a
shortage of cannabis across the country following increased raids.

It has led to dealers filling cannabis with tiny pieces of glass to
increase its weight and make more money.

The Home Office has asked every region to keep it informed of any
instances of glass being found in cannabis.

Ms Hart said the glass is so small that, if swallowed, it will pass
through the body without causing any harm, but there are worries it
could be deposited in people's mouths.

She told the Mail: "We are monitoring the situation and so far there
have been no reports of glass being found in cannabis in Hartlepool or
Cleveland.

"All of our services have been alerted and we are keeping an eye on
things. If there is any contamination we will inform the Home Office
for information and advice.

"But at the moment there is no issue."