(St. John’s, NL), January 12, 2023 – The Royal Newfoundland Constabulary (RNC) are warning the public of the potential increase in the use of dangerous Narcotics in the community.

In the last 48 to 72 hours, members of RNC Operational Patrol Services (OPS) have responded to an increase in calls for medical assistance involving suspected drug overdose. The RNC warn the public of a possible increase in the availability of illicit, dangerous and potentially fatal drugs in the community.

Many of the recent instances of suspected drug overdose have involved the use of Naloxone, indicating a presence of powerful opioids, such as Fentanyl, among the illicit substance being trafficked and used. Investigators are working to establish the source of these illicit drugs and warn the public of the explicit dangers of using non-regulated and non-prescription drugs.

The RNC have concerns for the safety of anyone ingesting or encountering illicit drugs, and warns of the life threatening consequences of ingesting opioids, such as Fentanyl. A small amount of this opioid may be fatal.

If you or someone you know is using illicit drugs, please ensure there is a naloxone kit close by. Please visit Naloxone Kit Distribution Sites – Health and Community Services (gov.nl.ca) to learn where to access a free naloxone kit in your community.

The investigation is active and the RNC Drug Investigation Unit (DIU) and Criminal Investigation Division (CID) request that anyone with information to assist with this, or other drug related offences in our community, contact the RNC at 729-8000 or to remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers: #SayItHere 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), visit www.nlcrimestoppers.com or use the P3Tips app.

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Cst. Jason Wash #883
Media Relations and Public Communications Officer
Royal Newfoundland Constabulary
media@rnc.gov.nl.ca
(709) 729-8658