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More than 30 ill after taking fake heroin - Met

BBC Needle and spoon with heroin resting on a newspaperBBC
Tests have found the drug is a synthetic opioid

At least 33 people have been unwell after they took a substance they thought was heroin, the Met Police has said, adding that 17 have needed hospital care.

Although the Met is not aware of anyone in a life-threatening condition, officers gave emergency first aid to a man in cardiac arrest having taken the "dangerous" substance.

Tests have found the drug is a synthetic opioid. There have been no arrests, and officers are warning that the substance, which causes an "extreme reaction" is still in circulation in the Camden area.

The force first became aware of people being unwell having taken the drug on Monday when 10 people were affected.

Getty Images People walk along a street in Camden, north London. The buildings are painted in bright colours and have street art on them. Some are shops selling items like sunglasses while others are cafes. Getty Images
The synthetic drug has been found in the Camden area

The Met officers gave emergency first aid after being called to Haverstock Road in Camden on Wednesday evening.

Det Ch Insp Chris Soole said the man had taken "what he thought was heroin and it is likely that the actions of those officers saved his life".

"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.

"My advice remains that people should not buy, sell or consume illegal drugs."

The force added it continued to investigate the incidents alongside partner organisations including hospitals and Camden Council.

Blue and orange naloxone boxes and white nasal sprays in packaging on a wooden table, with a black velcro kitbag in the foreground featuring the word 'naloxone' on it
Naloxone can save the life of someone who has overdosed on opioids

Camden Council's cabinet member for health, wellbeing and adult social care, councillor Anna Wright, said: "These cases are extremely worrying and we are working together with the police and our partners in the community to do all we can to reduce further drug-related harm.

"We have targeted the work of outreach teams to the affected locations and are making additional support readily available to those who may need it, including access to life-saving Naloxone kits.

"We have also issued a drug alert to our local network of healthcare and accommodation providers."

Det Ch Insp Soole called on anyone with information about drug dealers to share what they know with police or call Crimestoppers anonymously.

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