Toronto police crack down on synthetic marijuana

Toronto police have added their voice to a string of warnings from other agencies about the sale of so-called synthetic marijuana in corner stores.

Sometimes referred to as smokable "herbal incense," a variety of products in brightly coloured packaging have surfaced in numerous jurisdictions, and have drawn warnings from Health Canada that smoking them can result in symptoms ranging from seizures to hallucinations.

Sold under such brand names as IZMS, Grape Drank and Luau Love, and loosely termed "synthetic cannabinoids," the substances are illegal under the federal Controlled Drugs and Substances Act.

Following an investigation launched last month, the Toronto police drug squad on Monday seized 55 packages of the products in different parts of the city.

No charges were laid, but the store owners were cautioned and reminded the products are illegal.