Brussels (The Brussels Morning Newspaper): Seven people caught with laughing gas at Brussels shop leading to 348 liters seized. Manager arrested shop sealed as authorities investigate suspected illegal distribution. Possession and sale now illegal in Belgium.
Recently at a newspaper shop on Liedtsplein in Brussels a big discovery was made involving illegal laughing gas. It all started when seven people were caught in the shop with bottles of laughing gas. This led the authorities to search the shop more thoroughly. During the search of the newspaper shop on Liedtsplein in Brussels the police found a large amount of laughing gas 348 liters in total. Laughing gas also known as nitrous oxide is sometimes used by young people to get high even though it can be dangerous.
What are the implications of the recent laughing gas bust in Brussels?
The discovery of such a large amount suggests that the shop might have been selling or distributing the gas illegally. The authorities are now likely to investigate further to see if the shop was part of a bigger operation dealing with laughing gas. In addition to the large amount of laughing gas found during the search of the newspaper shop on Liedtsplein the police also seized a significant amount of cash and a company vehicle. These items are believed to be linked to the illegal activities involving the distribution of laughing gas.
The manager of the shop who was present at the time of the search was taken into custody by the police. He was then handed over to the public prosecutor’s office for further legal proceedings. After reviewing the case the public prosecutor brought the manager before the investigating judge. Despite the seriousness of the case the judge decided to release the suspect but under strict conditions which likely include restrictions on his activities and movements while the investigation continues. As part of the ongoing investigation the authorities have sealed the shop to prevent any further activities on the premises until the case is resolved. This action is intended to preserve evidence and prevent the continuation of any illegal operations.
During a second check at a newspaper shop on Brabantstraat police found four people with laughing gas bottles and wrote a report for selling drugs. Laughing gas became illegal to sell carry, or possess this spring. For personal use the first offense can lead to a fine of up to 200 euros which increases to 400 euros for a second offense and 800 euros for a third. Those caught selling laughing gas face even harsher penalties including higher fines, confiscation of their goods and possible prison sentences of up to five years or more if they are part of a gang.
