Two individuals have been taken into custody on suspicion of manufacturing a hazardous substance referred to as ‘lean,’ which is targeted at children.
Authorities conducted a search at a residence in Castle Vale, Birmingham, on Thursday, October 16, where they discovered a large quantity of Phenergan, codeine, and various medications, as well as equipment such as beakers, funnels, empty bottles, and an automatic stirrer. Additionally, they found cocaine, cannabis, cash, a samurai sword, and pepper spray.
A 41-year-old woman and a 22-year-old man were apprehended under suspicion of involvement in the production of the Class-B drug known as lean.
A spokesperson from the West Midlands Police stated, “We executed a search warrant and arrested a man and a woman on suspicion of manufacturing a dangerous Class B substance known as ‘Lean.’”
“The operation was carried out by the Birmingham LPA Priority Crime Team at a property in Castle Vale on Thursday morning, where a 41-year-old woman and a 22-year-old man were arrested on suspicion of being involved in the production of a Class B substance.”
“They have been released on bail as our investigation progresses.”
“During the operation, authorities confiscated numerous bottles of Phenergan, codeine, and other medications, along with various tools and illicit substances including cocaine, cannabis, cash, a samurai sword, and pepper spray.”
“The arrests are related to the manufacture of a harmful substance known as ‘Lean.’ This drug, due to its sweet taste, is marketed towards children and young individuals, posing risks of psychosis and impairing cognitive functions. The substance may contain paracetamol, which can lead to severe liver damage and even death if consumed excessively.”
“Our investigation is ongoing, and individuals with relevant information are encouraged to contact us at 101, quoting crime reference number 20/411120/25. Alternatively, information can be provided anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.”
Lean, also commonly referred to as “purple drank” on the streets, is an illicit concoction made from codeine-infused cough syrup, soda, hard candy, occasionally alcohol, and the antihistamine promethazine.
While lean is used across various age groups, it is predominantly misused by teenagers and young adults at social gatherings and parties.
