"DATE RAPE DRUG" REACHES BOSNIA

SARAJEVO, Bosnia (September 6 ,2007) - Rohypnol, the so-called "date rape drug", has reached the Bosnian market. Although no cases have been reported so far, the Bosnian law enforcement agencies around the country warn Bosnian citizens about the potential danger of the drug.

Initially designed to treat sleeping disorders, Rohipnol has been administered for more sinister purposes. As a matter of fact, several cases around the world report the drug being given to women without their consent in order to remove their inhibitions.

Dzemal Murga, an Independent Inspector with the Anti-Narcotic Department of the Sarajevo Canton police, confirms that it can easily be spiked to a victims’ drinks undetected, as it is colourless, odourless and tasteless.

Rohipnol causes sedation or euphoria in approximately 20 to 30 minutes. The predominant clinical manifestations are drowsiness, impaired motor skills, and amnesia. Hence, someone who has taken the drug unwittingly is unlikely to remember what happened while they were under the influence.

The best advice to avoid being spiked is to trust no one. Counsellors say anyone who feels at risk should never accept any opened drink, particularly not from a stranger.

Tamper-proof bottles or cans are recommended. They should not be opened by someone else.