So-called legal highs are no longer legal, after a new law aimed at combating the issue came into effect.
The Psychoactive Substances Act, which came into force on May 26, provides a blanket ban on the production, supply and importation of new psychoactive substances.
The legislation will fundamentally change the way police forces tackle those dealing the substances.
Commander Simon Bray, National Police Chiefs’ Council Lead for New Psychoactive Substances, said: “This new legislation is a very positive step forward.
“Police are ready to enforce the new law and tackle the harm caused in communities by the sale and use of drugs. As with all drugs, our approach will be practical, proportionate and based on the individual circumstances.
“Forces are committed to reducing the harm caused by all drugs but we cannot do this alone; prevention, education and health service all have a crucial role to play.”
Gwent Police said work has been underway across its area to raise awareness of the new ban.
Shop owners and other potential suppliers have been given time to adapt to the new laws and stop trading in the potentially dangerous substances.
A variety of options exist in enforcing the new law.
These include: prohibition notices, premises notices, prohibition orders and premises orders, which allow police or local authorities to require people to stop stocking, selling or supplying psychoactive substances.
Officers have been given stop and search powers on individuals and can search premises with a warrant.
They also have the power to seize and destroy psychoactive substances.
Gwent Police Chief Inspector, Nick McLain said: “We welcome this new legislation and the positive effect it will bring to helping us tackle the harm these illegal substances can cause. The term ‘legal highs’ is interpreted by some as meaning safe. Nothing could be further from the truth and this new legislation is a positive step forward.”