At least 115 individuals have been arrested in 84 cities following 200 investigations and raids. The arrests were the result of a two-year investigation by federal and local law enforcement agencies. Approximately 25 sellers were considered to be the primary targets.
The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) said that GHB and its derivatives are abused to produce euphoria, intoxication, and hallucinogenic states. They are also used as “date rape” drugs, acting as central nervous system depressants.
Odourless and colourless, the drugs cause drowsiness, dizziness, loss of consciousness, and loss of inhibition, as well as memory impairment -– which can make the prosecution of rape cases difficult when victims are given these drugs.
The DEA said that GHB and its derivatives have been responsible for 72 deaths and were made illegal two and a half years ago.
The dealers sold the drugs via their web sites and deliveries were made by mail. GHB is also known as “G” or “Liquid X.”