Attribute to Inspector Chris Wallace, Area Manager: Prevention
Hawke’s Bay Police are reminding the public of the dangers of psychoactive substances following the execution of four search warrants in Napier.
Three men — aged 23, 44 and 53 — have been charged with possession and supply of synthetic material following the search warrants on Monday. Further charges are being considered.
The 23 and 44-year-old men will next appear in the Napier District Court on Wednesday 29 August.
The 53-year-old-man was remanded in custody and will next appear in Napier District Court on Monday 27 September.
This precedes the sudden death of a 55-year-old man in Maraenui on Wednesday afternoon.
There is a possibility the death is linked to the use of a non-approved psychoactive substances, commonly known as synthetic drugs or ‘syns’. The death has been referred to the Coroner, who will ultimately rule on the cause of death.
Hawke’s Bay Police are committed to disrupting the supply of psychoactive substances in our community, and targeting the organised criminal groups distributing them.
We would strongly advise against anyone purchasing synthetic drugs as they are extremely dangerous and cause significant harm to our community.
Any form of drug use in our community has a detrimental impact on the individual, their family and the wider community. It can drive many aspects of crime, including family harm, dishonesty offences and serious assaults.
Police recognise that education is important and we are working closely with other agencies to ensure that all members of the community are well informed about the dangers of taking psychoactive substances.
If you, or someone you know, is using synthetic drugs, we urge you to stop immediately and seek help by contacting your local GP, ringing the Alcohol and Drug Helpline on 0800 787 797 or texting 8681 seven days a week to speak to a trained counsellor.
Anyone with information concerning the sale and supply of synthetics is asked to contact their local Police station or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
ENDS
Issued by Police media Centre