Delivery driver robbed at knifepoint in Cooranbong over 200 ‘nangs’
Police are investigating the armed robbery of a man who had responded to an order for nitrous oxide cartridges in Lake Macquarie. And it comes amid growing fears over the dangerous practice ‘nanging’ is having on the Hunter.
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A delivery driver has been robbed of 200 nitrous oxide cartridges at knifepoint as fears that the dangerous practice of “nanging” continues to get a foothold in the Hunter.
Large shopping chains have also identified an increase in the theft of the small cartridges, used as chargers for whipped cream dispensers and soft drink machines, as users try to get a cheap high or increase the effects of other illicit drugs.
Lake Macquarie detectives are investigating the armed robbery of a man who had responded to an order of 200 cartridges at Crawford Place, Cooranbong on Saturday night.
Two youths and a female confronted the man about 10.50pm and threatened him with a kitchen knife before stealing the canisters, which were worth about $150 on the street.
The sale of the cartridges, commonly sold in supermarkets and used in restaurants, is not illegal in NSW unless the sellers believe the buyers intend to misuse them.
Known as “nanging”, the nitrous oxide is inhaled and produces short bursts of euphoria from the substance commonly known as the “laughing gas” that dentists and doctors use.
Illicit drug users have also reported increased “highs’’ when using the nitrous oxide with other substances.
Known as “nangs’’, they are also known on the street as whippets or bulbs.
The Alcohol and Drug Foundation says the use of nitrous oxide can have a range of long-term health effects, including brain and nerve damage.
The increased popularity has also seen the emergence of 24-hour delivery services, although those found online tell potential customers of the strict laws which include the need to produce identification to prove they are over 18.
They also warn that the canisters cannot be misused or used to inhale.
It has also seen an increase in shoplifting of the canisters from major retailers.