WA Police are reinforcing the dangers associated with illicit drug use following three suspected
illicit drug overdose deaths attended over the weekend in Gwelup, Craigie and East Perth.
While these deaths do not appear connected police suspect all were linked to heroin use.
Year to date, there have been 22 suspected illicit drug overdose deaths, 14 of which are
suspected to be heroin related.
During July there were five suspected drug overdose deaths reported in the Perth metropolitan area.
Police suspect these deaths are the result of heroin use.
This compares to 31 suspected illicit drug overdose deaths in all of 2011, of which 26 are
suspected of being heroin related.
Although police have no evidence to suggest there is currently a bad batch of heroin in
circulation, it is a timely reminder to people of the risks associated with illicit drug use and the
abuse of prescription medications.
Detective Senior Sergeant Brett Ranford of the Serious and Organised Crime Division said,
“In light of these deaths, we ask the community, especially those contemplating illicit drug
use, to be mindful of the serious consequences associated with this activity.”
Detective Senior Sergeant Brett Ranford wishes to remind members of the public that all illicit
drugs are dangerous, regardless of the amounts taken.
“Typically the strength and purity of illicit drugs are generally unknown by the user and pose a significant risk to one’s health.”
Anyone with information concerning illicit drug distribution or use, is asked to call Crime
Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
Further information and assistance can be obtained from the Alcohol and Drug Information
Service on 9442 5000 or Hopeline 1800 033 108.
