Two individuals have been apprehended for allegedly manufacturing a harmful drug targeted at youngsters called ‘lean.’ Law enforcement officers conducted a search at a residence in Castle Vale, Birmingham, on Thursday, October 16, where they confiscated numerous bottles of Phenergan, codeine, and other medications, along with equipment like 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 taken into custody on suspicion of involvement in the production of a Class-B drug known as lean, according to a spokesperson from the West Midlands Police. Both individuals were arrested during the raid and have been released on bail as investigations continue.
The seized items included a large quantity of Phenergan and codeine, classified as Class B drugs, along with various drug paraphernalia. The arrests were related to the production of the drug lean, which is appealing to children and adolescents due to its sweet taste but can have detrimental effects on mental health and cognitive abilities. The substance may also contain harmful ingredients like paracetamol, which can lead to severe health issues or even death if consumed excessively.
Authorities urge anyone with relevant information to contact them through the provided channels for further assistance. Lean, also known as “purple drank” in street slang, is a prohibited concoction made with codeine, typically mixed with cough syrup, soda, candy, and sometimes alcohol and promethazine.
While lean is used across various age groups, it is most commonly abused by teenagers and young adults at social gatherings and parties.