Urgent warning: Deadly ‘blue Valium’ pills linked to three deaths in Plymouth

Public health officials have issued an urgent warning after three men died in Plymouth over the weekend, believed to have taken fake Valium pills.

The blue tablets, which may come in blister packs with Arabic writing, are being sold illegally as Valium.

Authorities are concerned they could be contaminated with dangerous substances.

*Professor Steve Maddern, Director of Public Health for Plymouth City Council has issued an urgent warning about dangerous blue pills linked to deaths.* © **Plymouth City Council**

Professor Steve Maddern, Director of Public Health at 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.

"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.”

If someone has taken drugs and becomes unwell, call 999 immediately or take them to Derriford Hospital’s Emergency Department.

Medical staff are there to help, not to judge. If the person is unconscious but breathing, put them in the recovery position to keep their airway clear. More advice is available on the FRANK website.

Public health officials are advising that the safest option is not to take these pills. However, if you choose to use drugs, they recommend never using alone, taking a small amount first to see how it affects you, staggering use so someone is always alert, and telling someone your plans or using the BuddyUp app by Cranstoun.

Carrying naloxone is also advised. Naloxone is a life-saving medicine that can reverse opioid overdoses and is available for free at Harbour, Hyde Park House in Mutley, Hamoaze House in Mount Wise, North Road West Medical Centre, Adelaide Street GP Surgery, and St Levan GP Surgery. It will not harm someone who has not taken opioids and may require multiple doses in some cases.

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.

"Anyone with information which may assist police is asked to call 101 or report via our website quoting reference 50250144278.”

Support is available for anyone concerned about their drug use. Harbour offers confidential help and can be contacted on 01752 434343 or at harbour.org.uk.

Hamoaze House provides support for families and friends affected by drug or alcohol use. Their Affected Others group meets every Friday from 1pm to 3pm and can be reached on 01752 566100. NAP Plymouth runs free monthly training on drugs and naloxone. They can be found on Facebook at NAP Plymouth 66 or contacted via email at napplymouth66@gmail.com.

Anyone with information is asked to contact police through their website, by calling 101, or by visiting a Public Enquiry Office quoting reference 50250144278.