Three Plymouth deaths linked to dangerous blue pills
Plymouth Council have released safety advice following the discovery of three bodies
Last updated 9th Jun 2025
Public health officials in Plymouth are warning people about blue tablets being sold illegally as Valium. These tablets may come in blister packs with Arabic writing.
This follows the news that three people died after taking what is believed to be these tablets.
Professor Steve Maddern, Director of Public Health for Plymouth City Council, said: “Any loss of a life is a tragedy, and we want to prevent it happening to anyone else.
"We’re very concerned about these tablets. We cannot currently speculate about the content of these drugs whilst they are being tested, but we do want people to be aware. T
"They might look like Valium, but they could be contaminated with another substance and therefore more toxic. If you or someone you know has these tablets, do not take them.”
The council released the following safety advice:
- The safest option is not to take these pills at all. But if you do choose to use drugs,
- Don’t use alone. Being with someone else could save your life.
- Take a small amount first and wait to see how it affects you.
- Don’t all take drugs at the same time—stagger your use so someone is always alert.
- If you’re using alone, tell someone your plans or use the BuddyUp app by Cranstoun so someone can check on you.
- Carry naloxone if you can. It’s a medicine that can reverse opioid overdoses, and it won’t harm someone even if they haven’t taken opioids. Having naloxone nearby could save a life. In some cases, more than one dose is needed, so carrying extra is a good idea.
- You can get naloxone for free in Plymouth from:
- Harbour, Hyde Park House, Mutley
- Hamoaze House, Mount Wise
- North Road West Medical Centre
- Adelaide Street GP Surgery
- St Levan GP Surgery
Detective Inspector Michelle Dunn from Devon and Cornwall Police said: “We are currently investigating the unexplained deaths of three men in Plymouth which occurred over the weekend.
“At this time, the deaths are believed to be drug related and we are working closely with our partner agencies to establish the full circumstances."