CRIME DETECTION AND INVESTIGATION

DRUG EDUCATION AND VICE CONTROL

National Drug Situation

As early as 1996, the United Nation has noted the rising popularity of amphetamine-
type stimulants (ATS) among drug users, and termed ATS as the �Drugs of the 21st
Century�. In its 2005 world drug report, The UN office on Drugs and crime reported
that the largest number of methamphetamine clandestine laboratories dismantled in
East and south East Asia in 2003 was recorded by the Philippines. In a survey
conducted by the DDB in 1999, there were around 1.8 million regular users and 1.6
million occasional users of Dangerous drugs in the country. In 2004, the country�s
rehabilitation centers reported 5, 787 admissions reflecting a decreased of 32%
compared with 7, 113 admission in the previous year. Statistics from these
rehabilitation centers show the following trends:

majority of patients are in the 20- 29 age group

The ratio of male users to female is 9:1
Shabu is the most popular drug of choice, abused by 84% of patients

For thirty years, RA 6425, otherwise known as the Dangerous Drug Act of 1972, had
been the backbone of the Philippine drug Law enforcement system. Recognizing the
need to strengthen or replaced the existing anti- drug laws, Pres. Gloria Arroyo
signed RA 9165 or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drug Act of 2002, on June 7, 2002 and
it took effect on July 4, 2002. The new anti- drug law defines more concrete course
of action for the national anti- drug campaign and imposes heavier penalties on
offenders.

The enactment of RA 9165 as reorganized the Philippine Drug Law Enforcement System.
While the DDB remains as the policy making body, it created the PDEA under the
office of the Pres. The new law also abolished the National Drug Law Enforcement
and Prevention Coordinating Center, PNP Nargrp, NBI narcotics unit, and the customs
interdiction office. Personnel of these abolished agencies were to continue to
perform their tasks on detail service with the PDEA subject to a rigid screening
process.
The PDEA was officially activated on July 30, 2002 when the Pres. Appointed its
first director Gen, Undersec. Anselmo Avenido Jr. One year after the creation of
the PDEA, the Pres. Issued E.O. 218 on June 18, 2003 to strengthen the support
mechanism for the PDEA as the lead agency in the campaign against illegal drugs.
The PNP organized the PNP AIDSOTF, NBI Anti- drug task force.

Causes and influences of drug abuse;

1. Peer pressure
2. Curiosity
3. Boredom
4. Frustration (due to personal, family, school and work problems)
5. Poor self-image
6. Weak personality (unable to cope with stress, conflict, etc.)
7. Desire to escape from reality
8. Lack of parental guidance

Tolerance
Abusers who frequently take the substance require progressively higher doses
to achieve the desired effects. Tolerance sets in after a few weeks of regular use.

PSYCHOLOGICAL AND PHYSICAL DEPENDENCE

This chemical substance is known to produce psychological and physical
dependency. These are characterized by anxiety, tension and craving for the
substance. This substance-seeking behavior can lead to various criminal and other
anti-social acts.
Withdrawal symptoms occur when drug use is abruptly stopped. Among these are
feeling of apathy, hypersomnia (excessive period of sleep) and depression
Depression may lead to suicide.
Methamphetamine in Pregnancy
Pregnant women should never abuse drugs. Metamphetamine is known �to cause
cardio-vascular anomalies (malformation of the heart and blood vessels), biliary
atresia (absence of bile ducts) leading to severe jaundice and microcephaly (small
brain with mental retardation) among babies born to mothers who took the substance
during pregnancy.
Abuse
The abuse problem began in 1932 with the introduction of benzedrine inhaler.
It was furthered by the introduction of benzedrine and dexedrine tablets.
Overproduction during World War II provided the initial materials for
methamphetamine abuse. Japan was the first country to experience a serious abuse
problem in the intravenous use of methamphetamine while the United States
experienced the first serious problem in the abuse of benzedrine inhaler.
Effects
Symptoms, in progressive stages, of the acute toxic effects of either
methamphetamine and amphetamine abuse include restlessness, tremor, talkativeness,
irritability, insomnia, anxiety, delirium, panic states, paranoid ideation,
palpitation, cardiac arrhythmias, hypertension, circulatory collapse, dry mouth,
nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramps, convulsions, coma and death. The toxic dose
varies widely and may occur as an idiosyncrasy after as little as two mg. but more
usually it occurs in doses far above the recommended amounts.

In an analysis of 310 cases of high-dose intravenous methamphetamine abuse,

psychological adverse reactions were divided into five categories.
1. Anxiety reactions in which the individual becomes fearful and tremulous with
concerns about his physical well-being.
2. Methamphetamine psychosis, in which the individual misinterprets the actions
of others, hallucinates, and becomes unrealistically suspicious.
3. Exhaustion syndrome, as intense feeling of fatigue and need to sleep
following the stimulation phase.
4. Prolonged depression.
5. Prolonged hallucinosis, in which the individual continues to hallucinate
after the drug has been metabolized.
Secondary effects of the use of the drug, when malnutrition is a factor,
include skin lesions, abscesses, respiratory problems, acute gastrointestinal
distress and abdominal cramps resulting from factors in the user�s environment.
High-dose users usually sustain a marked weight loss, multiple vitamin deficiencies
and dental decay. The possibility of brain damage has been suggested since coma and
its resultant brain damage can occur from both methampetamine and amphetamine
overdose.

Withdrawal. There is a controversy as to whether a Methamphetamine withdrawal

syndrome exists. For many years the medical consensus was that methamphetamines
were not addicting because of the supposed absence of a withdrawal syndrome. Part
of the difficulty lay in disagreement over the definition of addiction, but a
greater part was the failure to recognize the withdrawal syndrome because of its
qualitative difference from the narcotic of general depressant withdrawal syndrome.
The Methamphetamine withdrawal syndrome is characterized by apathy, decreased
activity, and to a greater degree, sleep disturbances which can last for weeks or
months. It was also found that, following abrupt withdrawal from large doses of
Methamphetamines, an increase in the percent of rapid eye movement (REM) sleep
occurred. REM returned to normal when Methamphetamine was given but increased again
when Methamphetamine was withheld. This phenomenon, observed under clinical
conditions, provides additional evidence for the existence of physical dependence.
Since suicides have occurred during methamphetamine withdrawal, doctors have been
advised to bring about withdrawal slowly, in a controlled environment.

EFFECTS OF STIMULANTS (AMPHETAMINES):

- Causes irritability, restlessness, hyperactivity, anxiety etc.
- Impairs judgment and causes deep depression and physical exhaustion after
single dose of moderate strength wears off
- Causes undesirable, acute psychotic consequences such as suspiciousness,
hostility, persecutory delusion, violent and destructive behavior and recklessness
- Physiological effects like hypertension, chest pain, irregular heart rate,
convulsion and cardiac arrest leading to death. Minds slow down the body reactions
to such extend that accidental deaths and suicides usually happen.

EFFECTS OF NARCOTICS:
- Produced a short lived feeling of pleasure, euphoria and a positive sense of
well being known as �thrill�, �rush�, or a �high�.
- Constrict pupil of the eye causing difficulty in vision
- On a large dose, it causes nausea, vomiting , and difficulty in breathing

EFFECTS OF MARIJUANA:
- Faster hear beat and pulse rate
- Blood shot eye
- Dry mouth and throat
- Altered sense of time disorientation
- Forgetfulness and inability to think
- Impaired reflexes/coordination
- Acute panic � anxiety reaction � extreme fear of losing control

FIELD TEST FOR DANGEROUS DRUGS:

- Marijuana �Duquenois � Levine test (Red)
- Shabu � Symone�s test (Purple)
- LSD � Van urk test (Blue purple)
- Opium � Marquis Test (Violet)
- Amphetamines � Marquis Test (Red/orange)
- Barbiturates � Dilli Koppanyi/ Zwikkers test (Violet/blue)
- Cocaine � Cobalt thiocynate (Blue)

The VOLATILE SUBSTANCES sometimes called: Solvents or Inhalants (i.e. Glue,

Gasoline, Kerosene, Ether, Paint Thinner, Lacquer etc.)

NARCOTICS

OPIUM AND ITS DERIVATIVES

History is fraught with stories concerning the use of opium. Some are facts and
some are fables. However, it is interesting to know that references to its use
predates tile birch of Christ. We know, for example, that ancient civilizations
used opium, in various preparations, both for pleasure and medical purposes.
One of the most significant developments in history took place in the early 19th
century (1803-1805), when a German scientist isolated morphine from opium. Morphine
was later introduced as a cure-all for all kinds of illness as well as for opium
addiction. This discovery marked the beginning of narcotics use and abuse as we
know it today. Codeine was isolated in 183Z from morphine, and shortly thereafter,
many other alkaloids of opium were identified and isolated.

At first it was thought that opium and its derivatives were a cure- all for many
ailments but very little was known of their pharmacological effects or toxicity.
Certain individuals began to glamorize the stupefying effects of the drugs and
large numbers of people began to abuse the drugs. Through continuous promiscuous
use, the number of addicts began to swell in countries throughout Europe.
In 1875 two English chemists developed the chemical compound diacetylmorphine out
of morphine which they called HEROIN. This was done by subjecting the morphine
alkaloid to chemical alteration. Studies were then initiated in Europe as to the
physiological properties of this new compound. In 1898 the Bayer Company began
marketing heroin as a cure for opium and morphine addiction and said that it was
absolutely non-addictive.

MORPHINE

Raw opium contains approximately 10% morphine, �% codeine, 1/5% of the baine, and
1% papaverine, plus more than 35 additional alkaloids in smaller amounts. The word
morphine comes from the name of the Greek god of dreams, �Morpheus.� The process of
extracting morphine from opium involves heating water to a proper temperature and
then thoroughly mixing the raw opium with the water.

HEROIN

The name is derived from the word �hero� which connotes audacity, courage. and
power. But these perceived traits in the use of heroin are largely illusory and
temporary as great harm is usually swiftly inflicted to self and social status.

Heroin (diacetylmorphine) is the most commonly abused narcotic in the world. To

produce heroin, the chemist takes an equal amount of morphine and acetic anhydride
and heats them together for approximately six hours at exactly 185 degrees
Fahrenheit, The morphine and acid become chemically bonded.
Codeine has long been the drug of choice among physicians as an ideal analgesic.
Addiction to codeine is rare, although �it has gained some popularity with the
addict who cannot obtain heroin. It will relieve moderate pain and seldom cause
respiratory problems.
STIMULANTS:

COCA AND COCAINE

Since pre-historic times, the coca plant has been cultivated in the highlands
of the Andes of South America. Its leaves were chewed by the natives for relief
from fatigue and as refreshment from work at high altitudes. However, the coca
plant is also found in Taiwan and Java in the Far East as well as in Colombia,
Chile, Bolivia, Peru and Argentina in South America,
Cocaine, in its pure form, is also white and made up of shiny, colorless
crystals and under stably called �snow� in the junkie jargon. In powder form,
cocaine is odorless and has a bitter taste, Some drug addicts inject cocaine
directly into the bloodstream for a more heightened effect. Cocaine is habit
forming as the user develops a strong dependence on the drug due to the compelling
need to experience once more the intense stimulation and hallucinations provides
by cocaine.
The coca plant is an evergreen, native to South America, particular the
countries of Peru, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile and Colombia, and should not be confused
with the cacao or cocoa plant, from which chocolate is made. Although the coca
plant is natural to South America, it has been successfully cultivated in Java,
West Indies, India and Australia.

OTHER STIMULANTS
There are several specific compounds in the nature of stimulants with which
the narcotics investigator should be familiar, These compounds fall into three
categories: amphetamines, non-amphetamine stimulants, and combination (amphetamine-
barbiturate) products. Within the amphetamine category, three products are very
important - Amphetamine, Dextroamphetamine, and Methamphetamine

AMPHETAMINES
 Benzedrine is the trade name for the racemic compound produced by Smith,
Kline and French Laboratories (SKF). The recommended dosage is 10 to 100 mg per day
for obesity in adults. For treatment of narcolepsy, hyperkinesis and minimal brain
disfunction in children, similar doses are prescribed.

Dexedrine is the trade name for dextroamphetamine sulfate produced by SKF.

The recommended dosage is 30 to 50 mg per day for obesity in adults. For treatment
of narcolepsy and minimal brain dysfunction in children, smaller doses are
prescribed. This drug comes in three forms - as an elixir, tablet, and capsule.

Desoxyn is the trade name for amphetamine hydrochloride produced by Abbot

Laboratories. The recommended dosage is 2.5 to 5 mg up to three times a day for
obesity and for adjunctive treatment of minimal brain dysfunction. Desoxyn comes in
two forms - as tablets and as Gradumet (registered trade name) tablets. The regular
tablet is white in color in 2.5 and 5 mg dosage form and bears the Abbot logo. The
Gradumet tablets are white, orange, or yellow in 5, 10, and 15 mg dosage form,
respectively, and bear the same Abbot logo.
The Amphetamines and Metamphetamines (Stimulants)
INTRODUCTION
The two most prevalent stimulants are nicotine in tobacco products and
caffeine, the active ingredient of coffee, tea and some bottled beverages. When
used in moderation, these stimulants tend to relieve fatigue and increase
alertness. They are an accepted part of our culture.
There are, however, more potent stimulants that, because of their dependence-
producing potential, are under the regulatory control of many governments. These
controlled substances are available on prescription for medical purposes hut they
are also clandestinely manufactured in vast quantities for distribution in the
illicit market.
Definition
Stimulants are compounds which affect the central nervous system by
accelerating its activities. Stimulants are either natural, such as epinepherine,
or synthetic, such as amphetamine or- methamphetamines (Shabu).
Origin
The first natural stimulant discovered was epinephrine (adrenalin). This
substance was found in adrenal glands of animals. Its effects were first described
in 1899.
In 1919 a Japanese chemist developed the first synthetic stimulant which he
called �Shabu� fish and meat. This substance was later identified as
methylamphetamine. In 1927, a substance called 1-phenyl-2-aminopro-pane and its
actions were first described by Gordon Alles. Smith, Kline and French Laboratories
conducted research on 1-phenyl-2-aminopropane and developed benzedrine and
dexedrine. It was during this development that the compound was called by its true
chemical name methyl-phenetyl-amine or amphetamine.
HALLUCINOGENS
The term �hallucinogens� refers to a group of drugs which affect the central
nervous system, producing perceptual alterations, intense and varying emotional
changes, ego distortions and thought disruption.

Most of these substances have no medical use and are taken simply because of their
effects. They are not considered addictive, although they can and do produce
psychological dependence. Hallucinogens are exotic drugs which have received
considerable attention from the media and drug abuse educators. While many of these
drugs enjoy periods of fad-like popularity with an accompanying temporary demand
for them in the illicit drug market, others, such as PCP, have been abused over the
last decade.

Hallucinogens (also called psychedelics) are capable of provoking alterations

of time and space perception, illusions, and delusions. Results are variables a
�good trip� or a �bad trip� may be experienced by the same person on different
occasions. Many drugs will cause delirium accompanied by hallucinations and
delusions when taken by people who are hypersensitive to them. Extraordinarily
large amounts of other types of drugs may also produce hallucinations because of
their direct action on the brain cells. Most of the hallucinogenic drugs in illicit
channels of distribution are manufactured in clandestine laboratories. Legitimate
chemical manufacturers in some countries produce some hallucinogenic drugs, but
only for research or chemical purposes. Some of these drugs have been diverted to
the illicit market through thefts or illegal purchases.

History of Cannabis Sativa (Marijuana)

History is replete with examples of the production of cannabis for different

reasons. George Washington, for example, attempted to grow Indian hemp (Cannabis)
for the production of rope. He failed, according to records he left, due to the
lack of female plants. Indian hemp production goes much further back in history and
its antecedents may be traced to texts of both ancient Chinese and Indian origin
dating back to 1200-500 B.C. Uses includes rope, canvas and fine linen as well as
for psychoactive purposes. Seeds have been used for bird- feed. The oil from
Cannabis Sativa is akin to linseed oil and has been used to promote rapid drying of
paint.
The use of Cannabis Tetrahydrocannabinol, a product of the resin of Cannabis
Satiya ,may be traced to Chinese herbal text in 1200B.C., where it was described as
a surgical anesthetic. In 1090, Marco Polo returned from China with tales of a
Persian religious cult that used hashish to induce visions of paradise for cult
members. The cult leader, called �Old Man of the Mountain� recruited men who were
given the drug, subjected to real pleasures and then sent on suicide missions of
Origin and Description

Cannabis Sativa L, from the genus Cannabis and the family Cannabinaceae, is
the botanical name for a tall annual, woody, dioecious shrub commonly known as
marijuana. The term �marijuana�, as defined by law means all parts of the plant
whether growing or not, the seeds thereof, the resin extracted from any part of
such plant, every compound, manufacture, salt derivative, mixture or preparation of
such plant, its seeds and or resins. The term does not include the mature stalks of
such plants, fiber produced from such stalks, oils or cakes made from the seeds of
such plants, any other compound, manufacture, salt derivative, mixture or
preparation of such mature stalks (except the resin extracted there from), fiber,
oil or cake, or the sterilized seed of such plant which is incapable of
germination.
Marijuana and hashish are derivatives of the cannabis plants which has been
cultivated for centuries for its fiber, oil and psychoactive resin. There are more
than 400 known chemical constituents in this plant. More than 60, known as
cannabinoids, are found only in cannabis. One of these is delta-9-
retrahyth�ocannabinol, also referred to as delta 9-THC. It accounts for the major
psychoactive effects of the plants. There are two varieties of the cannabis plants.
One is resin-producing and the other is fiber-producing. THC is found most
abundantly in the upper leaves, barks, and flowers of the resin-producing variety.
Marijuana, the dried leaves, may contain up to 5% of this compound. Hashish, the
dried and pressed flowers and resin, up to 12% and hashish oil, a crude extract of
hashish, up to 60%. The fiber-producing variety has much lower concentrations of
THC,
The true origin of the name marijuana is lost in antiquity. Gray attributes a
Greek derivation of the word �Cannabis� from the Persian �Kanab�. Other authors
cite many words from many languages as the possible morphological root of the word.
History tells us of the murderous frenzy of the Malays, characterized by running
�amok� after habitual use of hashish. It is also reported that Mohameddan leaders,
opposing the Crusaders, utilized the services of individuals while under the
influence of hashish to commit secret murders. The frenzy produced by the drug led
these persons to be called �haschichin�. �hashihash�, or �hashishi� from which
comes the modern English word �assassin�.