To make sure you never miss out on your favourite NEW stories, we're happy to send you some reminders

Click 'OK' then 'Allow' to enable notifications

Man, 25, Dead And A Teenager, 18, In A Critical State After Taking Drug Linked To Ketamine

Man, 25, Dead And A Teenager, 18, In A Critical State After Taking Drug Linked To Ketamine

South Wales Police have launched an investigation into the incident and urged people to come forward with information

Dominic Smithers

Dominic Smithers

A 25-year-old man has died and an 18-year-old is in a critical condition after taking drugs that have been linked to ketamine.

South Wales Police confirmed the reports today (15 November), and urged people who may have any information on where the drugs came from to come forward.

A spokesperson for the force warned people about the dangers of taking 'controlled drugs'.

They said: "Users of controlled drugs should be aware that they can never be 100% sure of exactly what they are taking.

"These drugs are illegal and there is every possibility that they may contain a cocktail of toxic ingredients.

"The Wales Drug and Alcohol helpline - 0800 6 33 55 88 - provides a free and bilingual single point of contact for anyone wanting further information or help relating to drugs or alcohol."

Anyone with any information relating to the sale of drugs in the area is urged to call 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800555111.

In the UK, ketamine is considered a class B drug, and carries a maximum sentence of five years in prison for possession and an unlimited fine.

Those found to be producing and supplying the substance can be prosecuted and sentenced to up to 14 years behind bars, again with an unlimited fine.

For those under the age of 18 who are caught with drugs in their possession, police are able to inform their parents or guardian.

The penalty imposed will depend on a series of factors, including the class and quantity of drug, where the person and their drugs were found, the individual's personal history (previous crimes, including any previous drug offences), and other aggravating or mitigating factors.

According to the Office for National Statistics, across England and Wales in 2019, 4,393 deaths related to drug poisoning were registered - the highest figure since the data time series began back in 1993.

Featured Image Credit: PA

Topics: Police, crime, Drugs, Wales, Health