Drug users in west Wales are being urged to be wary of “extremely dangerous” drugs circulating in the area after three people overdosed in three days.
Police are warning people predominantly in Ceredigion to take extra care after they received reports that a particularly harmful batch of drugs were being passed around within the county.
They say that the drugs have been contaminated and that anyone who has taken them should seek medical help immediately.
Following an initial warning that was issued on Friday, it has now been revealed that the pills in question are illegal prescription drugs - being sold as Valium - that have been laced with opiates.
Valium - also known as diazepam - is a benzodiazepine, which, when combined with opioids, can be particularly dangerous as both types of drugs are known to sedate users and suppress their breathing.
Detective sergeant Allan Rees of Dyfed-Powys Police said the drugs have arrived in the Ceredigion area within the last few days, and that they are likely to still be in circulation.
“Users are stating that these tablets, which are unusually white in colour, are taking hold quickly and the effects are disturbingly strong,” said DS Rees.
“We now know that these tablets, which are being sold illegally as Valium, are laced with an opiate because naloxone has been used to revive users, and this only works when opiates are present.
“Mixing drugs, knowingly or unknowingly, can be extremely dangerous for anyone taking them. We would appeal to all drug users to seek medical attention immediately should they become unwell.
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“Please share this information with anyone that you believe could come into contact with these drugs.”
The police added that anyone seeking advice and support should visit the Dyfed Drug and Alcohol Service website.
