The National Police have arrested two individuals at a leisure venue in Las Verónicas, Arona, Tenerife, for allegedly breaching public health laws related to the sale of nitrous oxide, commonly known as laughing gas. The police action took place early on 7 June after an officer noticed a worker leaving the premises with a bottle of the substance and equipment used for recreational dispensing.
Upon investigating the pub, officers discovered a locked storage area accessible only to staff. Inside, they found numerous boxes containing bottles and capsules of nitrous oxide, as well as paraphernalia prepared for sale and consumption. The police seized 91 large cylinders containing 670 grams of N2O each, 384 metal capsules of 7.5 grams each, 96 bags with 100 balloons each, and two siphons.
Further searches revealed bottles, balloons, and dispensers throughout the venue, including on a dance floor table, the terrace, and in the restrooms. Empty boxes were also found in rubbish bags, raising suspicions that the material was being used on-site.
The National Police requested assistance from the Arona Local Police, who recorded administrative violations related to classified activities.
Nitrous oxide has gained popularity in nightlife, particularly among young people. However, recreational use poses serious health risks, including dizziness, loss of balance, falls, injuries, asphyxiation, and potential neurological damage. Authorities warn that using it outside regulated contexts, especially in nightlife venues combined with alcohol or other substances, can lead to dangerous situations.
As a result of the operation, one pub worker and the establishment’s manager were arrested. The manager was found with €975 in small denominations and has a prior record for similar offences. Both are facing charges of public health violations linked to the sale of nitrous oxide for recreational use.
