Three people have been charged in Christchurch over possession and supply of synthetic drugs.
The arrests come amid a spate of admissions to Christchurch Hospital over the last two weeks of people who'd taken synthetic drugs, and two deaths suspected to be the result of such substances.
Police say search warrants were carried out at two addresses yesterday afternoon and evening in the Phillipstown area.
A 23-year-old man has been charged with supplying psychoactive substances, and a 21-year-old woman has been charged with possession of psychoactive substances for supply.
Both appeared in the Christchurch District Court today and have been remanded in custody.
A 25-year-old man has also been charged with obstruction and possession of psychoactive substances and is due to appear in the court next Wednesday.
David Clark wants to reclassify synthetics as class A drugs, but the Greens are unhappy about proposed penalties for use and supply. (Source: Other)
“It is incredibly concerning that in the vicinity of one of the addresses we searched, we found a number of people who we believe have used synthetics drugs,” Detective Senior Sergeant Sarah Illingworth said.
“They were unconscious or close to it. It was a real demonstration of just how dangerous this drug is," she said.
Police have not linked the arrests with the recent spate of hospital admissions or the two deaths.
Ms Illingworth said police want the public to know officers are working hard to make more arrests to stop the spread of these drugs which are extremely harmful.
Patients are becoming more aggressive after taking the latest, and very potent, strain of synthetics in the city. (Source: Other)
Police are urging those using synthetic drugs to stop immediately and contact their GP or the Alcohol Drug Helpline for assistance.
“We also ask members of our community who may think someone has taken synthetic drugs to call 111 immediately and seek medical assistance for them."
Police say they also need the assistance of the community to report anyone suspected of making or supplying synthetic drugs.
Anyone with information can contact their local police station or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
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