Police have revealed there have been 13 drug-related deaths this year. File Photo
Three Canberrans have died from suspected heroin overdoses in the past week, with police calling for public assistance to crack down on the alarming spike and to rid the streets of drug dealers.
Police have revealed there have been 13 drug-related deaths this year with three occurring in the past week in Cook, the City and Conder – all suspected of being associated with heroin use.
Detective Acting Station Sergeant Mark Rowswell said police were alarmed by the spike and mentioned that seven drug-related deaths have occurred in the past three months.
“Unfortunately people do die from drug use, you don’t know what you’re getting when you get drugs. It can hurt you,” he said. “All drugs are dangerous. We don’t know what’s been mixed with them, we don’t know how they’ve been produced.”
Detective Rowswell said police were working to curb heroin use in conjunction with ACT Health and were also asking the public for help to rid Canberra’s streets of illicit drugs.
“This is not just a policing problem. Everyone needs to work together to try and help people in relation to heroin,” Detective Rowswell said.
“Police can’t do this alone. We can’t arrest our way out of this problem so we are calling on all members of the community to come forward with any information they have regarding the sale of heroin or any other illicit drugs in the ACT.
“These needless deaths leave a lasting impact on families, the first responders and the wider community. We will be relentless in our pursuit of those who are selling drugs in our suburbs. Any piece of information, no matter how big or small can be helpful.”
Police are urging anyone who may have any information about the sale and supply of illicit drugs to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000, or via the Crime Stoppers ACT website. Information can be provided anonymously.
For information on support services call the Drug and Alcohol Help Line available 24-hours, 7 days a week on 6207 9977.
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