Second person dies in Queensland from taking bear-shaped pills
“Taking Nitazen is like playing Russian roulette with your life; it’s a serious gamble and even the smallest amount can lead to a fatal overdose,” AFP commander Paula Hudson said.
“When mixed with other illicit drugs, users have no idea what they are taking until it is too late.”
Not-for-profit organization The Loop operated CheQpoint, Queensland’s first permanent pill testing services, before its funding was cut this year.
During its year of operation, CheQpoint issued 10 public warnings after detecting hazardous and potentially lethal substances, including nitraceuticals.
Despite widespread support from health advocates and peak bodies for drug control services, Crisafulli’s government last month introduced legislation banning pill testing in Queensland, sending the message that there is no safe way to take drugs.
Loop CEO Cameron Francis said such rhetoric did not justify denying access to potentially life-saving services.
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“It’s true that there is no safe way to take drugs. We need to test them and warn people about some of the dangerous ingredients present,” he said.
“We know that Nitazen type drugs are still circulating in society… [and that] The drug market is becoming increasingly dangerous.
“We have seen a high number of deaths across the northern hemisphere throughout the festival season, so we are deeply concerned for the safety of festival goers this summer.” [and] “We are deeply concerned for Schoolies, which will take place in just a few weeks.”
Family Drug Support Queensland state manager Anna Daglish said drug use “does not discriminate” and deaths “can happen to anyone”.
“Prohibition hasn’t worked. People are still dying from substance abuse,” he said.
“When we talk about substance use, we’re not just talking about illegal substances.”
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