Warning as dangerous batch of heroin detected in the Westcountry
Police have taken the 'unusual step' of alerting residents because whilst they don't condone illegal drug use - they have a duty to protect people
Police in Melksham have issued an urgent warning as a dangerous batch of heroin has been detected in parts of the region.
Police say they've taken the "unusual step" of warning heroin users to be aware of a particularly dangerous batch, with some users have becoming seriously ill.
They've responded to a number of incidents in Chippenham and Devizes in recent days.
There have been no reports in Melksham or Bradford on Avon as of yet.
On their Facebook page, a spokesperson from Wiltshire Police said: "We are taking the unusual step of warning heroin users to be aware of a particularly dangerous contaminated supply of heroin in circulation.
"This follows a number of incidents over the weekend, in the Devizes and Chippenham area, where we have responded to individuals who have become seriously ill because of an unintentional overdose.
"Whilst we do not condone illegal drug use- we have a duty of care to protect those who may face additional risk because of this particularly dangerous supply.
"If you are a heroin user, or you know someone who is- please exercise extreme caution."
Support is available.
You can find out more about local drug and alcohol support services here.
There is NHS help available, which you an access here.
You can also Talk To FRANK.