Warning Over Contaminated Cocaine

Barnet police are issuing a warning to drug users after two sudden deaths in Barnet that may have resulted from the use of contaminated crack cocaine.

On 20 January a 26-year-old man in the Edgware area died shortly after he is thought to have taken crack cocaine. Next of kin have been informed

On 23 January in the Friern Barnet area, a 48-year-old man, who was a believed user of crack cocaine, died suddenly of suspected cardiac arrest.

Enquires continue and officers await the result of toxicology reports to ascertain the causes and nature of the two deaths.

Barnet police have issued this warning as a precaution.

Ch Supt Adrian Usher, Borough Commander of Barnet police said:

"We would ask drug users to be very careful and strongly advise anyone who has recently bought crack cocaine to dispose of it immediately and seek immediate medical attention if they become unwell.

"Anyone with information that might stop these drugs harming any other person can phone Barnet police on 101 and ask to speak to DC Mike Paton of Barnet CID or ring Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111."