A British tourist has been arrested in Ibiza after police found 42 bottles of laughing gas and balloons in his car.
On June 1 the 42-year-old was arrested in the town of Sant Josep de Talaia after Guardia Civil officers conducted routine checks. Officers found seven large boxes in the back seats and 42 bottles of laughing gas.
Alongside the gas, officers found multiple items used for consumption including balloons and other mouthpieces. The driver was unable to show proof of necessary commercial or professional activity related to the products so police arrested the Brit as an alleged perpetrator of a crime against public health.
View 2 ImagesBrits heading off to Spain in the next couple of months should prepare for some extra hot conditions.
(Image: AFP via Getty Images)
Under the Public Safety Act, possession of the gas carries financial penalties and arrest and potential prison sentences on the island range between one and three years.
Laughing gas is a colourless gas that is mostly used as a medical and dental sedative. Its use provides mild pain relief and wears off quickly, allowing patients to remain awake during procedures.
When used recreationally the gas is inhaled from balloons which creates a quick, euphoric high. The substance also limits oxygen to the brain, which can lead to fainting, dizziness, nerve damage and in severe cases even death.
Nitrogen gas has reportedly been spreading in Ibiza Island and its neighbour Majorca over the last few years. Street dealers often target tourists charging £5 for balloons despite its life-threatening risks.
Article continues below
For many British holidaymakers jetting off to sunnier destinations like Spain, few pleasures compare to dining outdoors for lunch or dinner, basking in the sunshine while enjoying a chilled beer and tapas.
But Brits heading off to Spain in the next couple of months should prepare for some extra hot conditions.
A weather phenomenon known as El Niño, which delivers prolonged warm temperatures across the Pacific Ocean every two to seven years, is predicted to drive up temperatures and could lead to red weather warnings throughout Spain. Currently, forecasts are still being reviewed, but the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) has indicated it could be a ‘strong event’ this year, meaning particularly scorching temperatures in the next couple of months.