Merseyside Police has warned the public about a “dangerous” batch of ketamine that has been circulating around Liverpool. The alert was posted after three men experienced seizures last Saturday after taking the drug inside a bar on Fleet Street. The trio was later taken to the hospital for medical attention. Two of them, who were in stable condition, were still in the facility during the early afternoon, although the other was discharged. The police have urged people to report the use of any dangerous drug so they can act on it and ensure public safety.
Detective Inspector Ruth Tickle stated: “We have had recent reports of a dangerous batch of ketamine being sold in bars in our city and we are determined to help young people understand the harmful effects and risks of the associated drug” and also added, “If you are concerned about your own use of ketamine or other drugs or alcohol, or you are concerned about somebody else, there are support services available.”
Laced and counterfeit drugs have been circulating in the UK, The Loop and Pill Report warned. The entities raised a public health alarm for the country’s drug market and identified higher risk substances such as nitazenes. Research suggested that there was significant adulteration in the usage of opioids and illegally bought prescription benzodiazepines. In sporadic cases, they have found other substances, including club drugs, to be affected.
Harm reduction and information-based services are being provided by different organizations to aid this issue. Pill Report, for example, has dedicated itself to drug testing kits, ear protection, and related matters. The Loop contributes to the cause with safe drug use, staff training, and advice. Funding can be given to both groups, as well as to WEDINOS, another harm reduction project service that gathers anonymous data about substance use trends in the population.
Gemma Ross, Mixmag’s Assistant Editor, added, “We want to raise awareness about this emerging public health risk.” She emphasized the importance of recognizing the dangers associated with drug use, especially so English youth can become better informed and prevent such mishaps from happening again
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