A north-east addiction support group has warned that a deadly batch of heroin has been flagged up in Peterhead.
Aberdeenshire Alcohol and Drug Partnership (ADP) is asking local people to be extra vigilant after revealing any heroin purchased in the port could be contaminated with another life-threatening substance.
Wayne Gault, ADP team leader, said anyone who believes they may be at risk should contact Turning Point Scotland locally for help.
Mr Gault added it was never possible to know for sure if a drug was pure when bought from a dealer.
The substance used to contaminate the heroin – already a class A controlled drug – has not yet been revealed.
“All we can say is that this is based on live intelligence obtained this week, and more details will emerge,” Mr Gault said.
“Even though the rate of use of heroin has been declining over the past 10 years, particularly in young people, it is still the most dangerous and significant reason for people presenting to addiction services.
“As with any drug, people don’t know what is in the powder or pill they purchase from dealers. If people must use, the advice is that they take precautions by testing a small quantity of any new batch of drug to ascertain its potency and effects.
“Better still, this might be a good opportunity to seek help and support.”
Turning Point Scotland has a Peterhead office at 9 St Peter Street, open Mondays to Fridays.
ADP has also recommended drug users seek help by making use of the services offered by Aberdeen-based Alcohol and Drugs Action, which has an emergency hotline manned over weekends.
The charity, which is part funded by the NHS and local authority, can be contacted on 01224 594700.
