Headline: Antimafia Committee Rounds Up Over 20 Websites Selling HHC for Vaping
Subheading: KZP Discovers Hazardous Product in a Store in Varna Following Teen’s Tragic Death from HHC-Containing Vape
Article:
Bulgarian consumer protection authority, the Commission for Protection of Consumers (KZP), has uncovered over 20 websites peddling hexahydrocannabinol (HHC) and its derivatives for vaping. This crackdown followed the death of a 14-year-old boy who fell from a seventh-floor balcony in Pleven after using an HHC-containing vape. The teen had reportedly consumed a large amount of HHC.
KZP launched investigations across the country, inspecting around 200 trade outlets, including tobacco and alcohol shops, and convenience stores. Unfortunately, HHC-containing products were found in only one store, located in Varna. The products discovered will now be analyzed in a licensed laboratory by the Customs Agency. If HHC or other banned substances are detected, the Commission’s chair, Maria Filipova, will issue an immediate ban on their sale.
The websites selling HHC were reported to the Main Directorate "Fight against Organized Crime" for further action. It’s essential to note that although some websites display certificates, these do not serve as licenses. The distribution of narcotic substances is illegal and cannot be licensed.
Consumers are warned that using products containing HHC and its derivatives is not only extremely dangerous but also against the law. HHC is classified in List I of "Plants and substances with a high degree of risk for public health" due to its harmful effects when misused. It is prohibited for application in both human and veterinary medicine.
Ministry of Health spokesperson clarified that HHC’s psychoactive effect is similar to that of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the main psychoactive compound in cannabis. The consumption of HHC can lead to impaired judgment and coordination, increasing the risk of accidents, as seen in the tragic incident in Pleven.
Thewebsites discovered selling HHC have been reported to the Main Directorate "Fight against Organized Crime" for immediate action. Consumers are urged to stay informed and avoid products containing HHC and its derivatives.