Belgium declares war on smart drugs

BRUSSELS, April 23 (Reuter) Belgium on Wednesday declared war on socalled
smart drugs, which are billed as the healthy alternative to illegal drugs,
the Interior Ministry said.

``We have to take away the illusion among youngsters that smart drugs are
healthy...there is no such thing as healthy drugs,'' said Kris Van Limbergen,
permanent secretary for prevention policy of the interior ministry.

Smart drugs, which range from highcaffeine energy drinks to toxic drugs
approaching the strength of ecstasy, are mainly used at ``house'' music
events. They emulate many of the effects of their illegal cousins such as
amphetamines, barbiturates, acid, qualudes and cannabis.

But they are supposed to enhance mental abilities and are sold over the
counter.

Van Limbergen told Reuters he wanted to prevent ``smart shops'' from
developing into a network of coffeeshops the infamous Dutch
establishments that sell small amounts of soft drugs.

He said many smart products contained toxic or illegal ingredients and that
the ministry had lodged a complaint at the Belgian Health Ministry's food
inspection service which was now sending inspectors to the shops.

``They are facing fines for nearly all their products and there is a simple
conclusion. If they abide by the rules, only their counter will be left in
the shop,'' Van Limbergen said.

He noted that a large majority of the products were imported from the
Netherlands.