Police and Health board Warning over M.X.E drug

North Wales Police and the Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board are warning of the dangers of Methoxetamine or M.X.E. / Chocolate, after two people from the Bangor area were admitted to Ysbyty Gwynedd having taken the drug.

The two people were taken to the Accident and Emergency Department in the early hours of April 1st.

PC Arwyn Tudur Jones explained:

“Very little is known about this substance, apart that it is a stronger version of Ketamine and it is a class ‘B’ drug.

“There have been no confirmed deaths from MXE and nobody knows the long term risks of using it, and how similar the risks are to ketamine.

 Godfrey Hayes, Substance Misuse Programme Manager with the health board, said:

“This latest incident again shows the risks that come with taking drugs and other substances in ways that are not intended.  These risks are multiplied when people start mixing drugs, or taking them with alcohol.  Breathing and heart function can be affected,  they may cause nausea and then choking risks as well as putting people at greater danger of accidents.

“And, of course, when you are getting drugs from an illegal source you can never be sure what you are getting – what strength or what other substances might be mixed in with them.”

PC Jones added:

“The investigation is ongoing and a full report will be produced. I would strongly urge those who supply or use ‘MXE’ in particular to think hard about what they are doing and to stop immediately.”

 “We continue to work with our partners to highlight the dangers of drug abuse and a pro-active team targets people involved in the illegal supply of drugs.”

 “The police rely heavily on information from the community regarding drug dealing and information provided will be dealt with confidentially.”

If anyone has any information in relation to the use or supply of ‘MXE / Chocolate’ please contact PC 2679 Arwyn Jones at Bangor Police Station on 101.

Anyone with  information about those who use or supply any other controlled drugs contact North Wales Police on 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.