Khat will be a banned substance from June 24

Khat becomes a banned substance from tomorrow (Tuesday June 24) with anyone found in possession of the drug facing up to two years in prison.

Khat is a commonly used substance particularly within the Somali community in Bristol over the last 15 years.

A police spokesman said: “It’s a mild stimulant but prolonged use can cause liver disease.

“From midnight, khat became a Class C drug which means anyone found in possession faces up to two years in prison and an unlimited fine- and for anyone producing or supplying it the maximum sentence is 14 years.

“Ahead of the ban, we formed a partnership with the Somali Forum, Safer Bristol and Public Health England.”

Over the past year the police have sought to update the community on the proposed ban and developed an action plan to address the problems associated with excessive khat use.

The force will be policing khat as they would any other controlled drug and over the first few weeks, will be prioritising education about khat use and the services available for regular users.

Speaking about the ban Paul Bunt, the drug strategy lead for Avon and Somerset Police said: “Within Avon and Somerset we police drugs according to the harm they cause our communities.

“Over the last 12 months our consultation with the Somali community has highlighted the harms associated with the long-term use of khat.

“We’ll help to reduce those harms by working with our partners and the community.”

cheddarvalleygazette.co.uk