Police in Christchurch have this week arrested three people in relation to the possession and supply of synthetic drugs.
Search warrants were carried out at two addresses on Thursday 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 Christchurch District Court on Wednesday 10 October.
“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,” says Detective Senior Sergeant Sarah Illingworth.
“They were unconscious or close to it. It was a real demonstration of just how dangerous this drug is.
“We want the public to know we are working hard to make more arrests like today's to stop the spread of this harmful substance.
“These drugs are extremely harmful. We urge 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 also need the assistance of the community to report anyone suspected of making or supplying synthetic drugs.
You can contact your local police station or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
ENDS
Issued by Police Media Centre