Methamphetamine

Also known as

• 'Ice', Glass, Crystal, Speed, 'Quartz', 'Ice Cream', 'Hirropon', 'Ya ba', Shabu or Syabu.

Description

• Methamphetamine in its crystallised form is known as methamphetamine hydrochloride. It usually comes in the form of a colourless and odourless crystal that resembles glass fragments or shiny blue-white "rocks" of various sizes. This explains why it is more commonly known as 'Ice' in Singapore.

• Methamphetamine also comes in tablet form. In this form, it is also known as 'Crazy Horse Pill' or 'Ya ba'. Most of the 'Ya ba' tablets found in Singapore are embossed with the 'WY' logo and are green or orange in colour.

• Methamphetamine is highly addictive and is a strong stimulant. It has a very strong effect on the central nervous system.

Withdrawal symptoms / Side effects

• Disorientation, apathy, confused exhaustion

• Strong psychological dependence

• Psychosis

• Depression

• Damage to the brain similar to Alzheimer's disease, stroke and epilepsy

• Aggression and violent behaviour

• Anxiety

• Confusion

• Insomnia

• Auditory hallucinations

Negative effects (Physical)

• Permanent damage to blood vessels of heart and brain, high blood pressure leading to heart attacks, strokes and death

• Liver, kidney and lung damage

• Destruction of tissues in nose if sniffed

• Respiratory (breathing) problems if smoked

• Infectious diseases and abscesses if injected

• Malnutrition, weight loss

• Severe tooth decay

Penalties

Possession of methamphetamine:

• Less than 167 grammes – Up to a maximum of 10 years of imprisonment or a fine of $20,000 or both

• Between 167 grammes and 250 grammes – At least 10 years of imprisonment and 5 strokes of the cane, up to a maximum of 20 years of imprisonment and 10 strokes of the cane

• More than 250 grammes – At least 20 years of imprisonment and 10 strokes of the cane, up to a maximum of 30 years of imprisonment and 15 strokes of the cane

Consumption of methamphetamine:

• At least 1 year of imprisonment, up to a maximum of 10 years of imprisonment with a maximum fine of $20,000

Illegal traffic, import or export of methamphetamine:

• Less than 167 grammes – At least 5 years of imprisonment and 5 strokes of the cane

• Between 167 grammes and 250 grammes – At least 20 years of imprisonment and 15 strokes of the cane, up to a maximum of 30 years of imprisonment or imprisonment for life and 15 strokes of the cane

• More than 250 grammes – may face the death penalty