A major health emergency is unfolding in Camden, with 33 people now reported unwell after taking what police believe to be a synthetic opioid masquerading as heroin. The Metropolitan Police have declared it a “critical incident,” urging the public to avoid illegal drugs in the area.
Initially, nine cases were reported on March 4, but that number has since risen to 33, with 17 individuals requiring hospital treatment. Fortunately, none are currently reported to be in a life-threatening condition.
First Cases and Affected Areas
The first emergency calls were received on the afternoon of March 3, with reports of people falling ill in areas including:
Subsequent cases have continued to emerge, all within the Camden borough.
Synthetic Opioid in Circulation
Authorities have confirmed that the substance involved is not heroin, but instead a potent synthetic opioid, which is triggering extreme reactions in users.
On Wednesday, March 5, emergency services saved a man’s life in Haverstock Road, after he suffered a cardiac arrest, highlighting the dangerous nature of this drug.
Police and Council Response
Detective Chief Inspector Chris Soole, one of the senior officers managing the incident, emphasized the severity of the situation:
“This is the fourth day of our response to this critical incident, and it is absolutely clear just how dangerous this substance really is.
I urge anyone who may be at risk to take every possible precaution, including seeking support and advice from health professionals about alternatives to acquiring and taking illegal drugs.
As I said on day one, my advice remains that people should not buy, sell, or consume illegal drugs. They are illegal and the trade is not regulated, so there are always very serious risks.”
No arrests have been made yet, but police have confirmed that urgent investigations are ongoing.
Cllr Anna Wright, Camden Council’s Cabinet Member for Health, Wellbeing and Adult Social Care, said:
“These cases are extremely worrying, and we are working closely with the police and community partners to reduce further drug-related harm.
We have deployed outreach teams to affected locations and are making additional support available, including life-saving Naloxone kits.”
Drug Safety Advice & Emergency Measures
The Camden Drug and Alcohol Service has issued the following advice:
- Call 999 immediately if someone collapses after using drugs.
- Administer Naloxone if available – this can reverse the effects of opioid overdoses.
- If there is no response in 2-3 minutes, administer another dose and continue monitoring the person.
- Even if someone appears to recover, they must still seek urgent medical attention as opioid effects can return after the antidote wears off.
For Naloxone kits or support with drug or alcohol issues, residents can contact Camden Drug and Alcohol Services on 020 7485 2722 or email [email protected].
Public Appeal
Authorities urge anyone with information about drug dealers in the Camden area to contact police via 101 or report anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
This remains an ongoing critical incident, and further updates will follow as investigations continue.
