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RCMP officers in Meadow Lake have seized methamphetamine laced with fentanyl, and the Saskatchewan Ministry of Health is warning of an increased overdose risk as a result.
According to police, officers seized about 29 grams of meth during a traffic stop in Meadow Lake on Monday, and field testing revealed that it was laced with fentanyl, a powerful opioid responsible for numerous overdoses.
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Police also seized pepper spray and cash from the vehicle.
A 36-year-old man and a 22-year-old woman were arrested during the traffic stop. They’re each facing charges of possession of fentanyl and methamphetamine for the purpose of trafficking, along with a charge of possession of property obtained by crime under $5,000. The man was also charged with three counts of failing to comply with a probation order, while the woman is facing a charge of possessing a weapon for a dangerous purpose.
They’re both scheduled to appear in a Meadow Lake courtroom on August 5.
“The substance is described as white-coloured crystals; it’s commonly sold as crystal meth,” the Saskatchewan RCMP said in a statement.
“Officers believe the drugs may have been destined for the Makwa Sahgaiehcan First Nation and Island Lake First Nation areas. This has not been confirmed.”
The Ministry of Health said the effects of the substance are not known, but it does create an increased risk for overdoses in the area.
“There is an unknown quantity of fentanyl in the sample, and people who use crystal meth may experience opioid toxicity,” the ministry said in a statement.
“Naloxone (narcan) can temporarily address some effects of opioids but will not reverse effects of methamphetamine.”
The RCMP noted that the provincial government offers take-home Naloxone kits and fentanyl drug-checking strips free of charge, and reminded anyone who witnesses an overdose to call 911 immediately.
“The Good Samaritan Drug Overdose Act provides some legal protection for individuals who seek emergency help during an overdose, including the person experiencing an overdose,” the RCMP added.
“The Act protects the person who seeks help, whether they stay or leave from the overdose scene before help arrives.”
The Saskatchewan RCMP said getting dangerous, illicit drugs off the street remains a priority, and asked anyone with information about drug trafficking in their area to report it to the local RCMP detachment or submit a report anonymously through Crime Stoppers.
