Wiltshire Police have issued an urgent warning to drug users in the Swindon area following a series of suspected drug-related deaths. The caution comes after a man in his 40s tragically passed away in the early hours of this morning after emergency services were called to The Parade in Swindon town centre.
This recent fatality marks the fourth suspected drug-related death in the region since the beginning of May. All four individuals are believed to have consumed substances they thought to be heroin before experiencing medical emergencies.
In response to these concerning incidents, Police officers from Wiltshire Police and health professionals in Swindon have been alerted to several cases since May where drug users have suffered severe health complications after ingesting substances such as heroin and cocaine, necessitating urgent medical attention.
Of particular concern is the emergence of a new group of drugs known as Nitazenes, which present a significant risk of overdose, hospitalization, and death. These synthetic opioids are often combined with street drugs like heroin, unbeknownst to users.
While investigations into these incidents are ongoing and have not yet been definitively linked to the presence of Nitazenes, Wiltshire Police and health authorities are urging drug users to exercise extreme caution. They emphasize the importance of informing friends and family members about the potential dangers associated with synthetic opioids.
Duty Superintendent Conway Duncan stressed the collaborative effort between Police and public health officials, stating, “We are in close contact with our colleagues in Public Health in relation to these circumstances and we are keen to ensure we protect people from harm where possible.
Acknowledging the complexities of drug addiction, Superintendent Duncan emphasized harm reduction measures, stating, “If you are a drug user in the Swindon area, we encourage users not to use alone and to carry the opioid reversal drug naloxone and be aware of the potentially fatal consequences.
Individuals with information or concerns regarding drug-related activities in their community are urged to contact police officers on 101 or CrimeStoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
