Police warn of 'particularly strong' batch of drugs after the death of woman in Sunderland

Police have issued a warning over a batch of "particularly strong drugs" in Sunderland after the death of a woman.

Northumbria Police launched an investigation after a woman in her 30s died and two other women in their 40s became unwell after taking what is thought to be blue diazepam tablets.

Officer said the pills were circulated in Southwick, Sunderland, and suspect all three people had taken the same tablets.

A 58-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of being concerned in the supply of drugs and has been released under investigation.

Detective Chief Inspector Sean McGuigan, of Northumbria Police, has warned anyone in possession of these tablets not to take them.

He said: “First and foremost, our thoughts go out to the loved ones of the woman who has sadly died and we are continuing to establish the circumstances around her death.

“Although our investigation is still at a very early stage, we are warning people against taking these tablets.

“Unless you have been properly prescribed medication via your doctor or pharmacy, you can never be sure what substances contain and the impact they could have on you."

He continued: “The risks of taking illegal substances are well documented and we would urge people to think about the potential consequences and not to take them.

“It is important that any illegal drugs are disposed of safely and not left in public – and they can be taken to police stations.“

As our investigations continues we would also encourage anyone with information about the drugs in question to contact us at the earliest opportunity.”

Listen to our latest podcasts to find out What You Need To know...