NT RCMP is warning users of illicit drugs there have been noxious substances found in a drug seizure.
Yellowknife RCMP General Investigation Section (GIS) seized illicit drugs on November 27, 2020 from a Yellowknife residence. seizure resulted in charges and the case is before the courts. drugs were believed to be crack cocaine, powder cocaine and tablets.
Samples of the illicit drugs were sent to the Health Canada Drug Analysis Service for analysis. The results were returned to the RCMP January 20, 2021 advising that two substances (Adinazolam – controlled under the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act (CDSA) and 5-MeO-DBT – not controlled) found in the drugs meets the following criteria:
- This substance is presented as a new form of exhibit that individuals may be unaware they are consuming; or
- This substance is so novel that limited information is available on its safety.
RCMP always warn against illicit drug use, however with the presence of two new substances in drugs seized in a Northwest Territories community, the danger of illicit drug use has increased.
RCMP is warning the general population to avoid using illicit drugs in case these substances are within the illicit drugs.
"RCMP are very concerned that those who are already at risk and harm from illicit drug use may be further affected by the presence of new and noxious substances recently found in samples of an illicit drug seizure in Yellowknife. In fact, given the distribution systems of the illegal drug trade, those tainted drugs could be anywhere in the territory, so this warning is for the entire Northwest Territories" states Inspector Dyson Smith, Officer in Charge Yellowknife Detachment.
The RCMP is working with the GNWT Department of Health and Social Services on the potential impacts of the discovery of the drugs in the territory. For more information please visit their website at https://www.hss.gov.nt.ca/en/services/opiod-overdose-prevention
"These two drugs are a concern for unexpected reactions, and the concern for other contaminants like opioids is always present. People who use street or illicit drugs should always do so with others present and have a plan to respond to an overdose. The plan should include having naloxone present and calling 911 for help with any overdose" said Dr. Andy Delli Pizzi, Deputy Chief Public Health Officer.