Carnival may be sweet—but beware of “Ecstasy” during the national festival.
The warning about the notorious party drug—and other drugs such as “Roofies” (Rohypnol)—came yesterday from National Security Minister Stuart Young as Carnival 2019 takes off.
Speaking during yesterday’s post-Cabinet press briefing, Young said he received a report in the last 48 hours from state agencies which had confiscated 1,627 Ecstasy pills between December 12, 2018 and February 20.
“We’re warning citizens and visitors alike, especially during Carnival, of a drug (Ecstasy) that seems to be circulating—please try to avoid it,” Young said.
Ecstasy (MDMA 3,4—Methylenedioxymethamphetamine) is a synthetic, psychoactive drug with stimulant and psychedelic effects that’s primarily used as a recreational drug. It’s known as “X,” “XTC” and other names and became popular as a club/party/rave drug over decades. It can cause feelings of euphoria/extreme happiness and altered sensations. But bad side effects include insomnia, nausea, rapid heartbeat and addiction. The initial “high” can be followed by severe depression after coming “down.” Sometimes called “the love pill,” it’s said to heighten perceptions of colour, sound and sensation.
Young said National Security Ministry narcotic experts and police had given him a report about a proliferation of Ecstasy pills netted after raids between December and February. The information showed 16 different types of Ecstasy tablets were seized in raids, he said.
He said in recent meetings of security heads, one of the issues discussed was the use of illegal drugs at Carnival and there’s been an escalation of this. Young said he didn’t know who the users are, “but I’m told it’s predominantly used in parties and events.”
He, however, stressed that there are often “bad mixes” of the drug and people may react differently. He said he didn’t have the information with him on who’s supplying the Ecstasy. Warning that use of this and other illegal drugs is a criminal offence, Young said Government is now working with the United Nations, which is providing machines to test for Ecstasy.
Doling out Carnival advice, Young added, “People, particularly females, should be careful, be aware of your surroundings, walk in groups and stay with your friends who’ll look after you.
“Don’t accept food or drink from strangers also, because there are - in addition to Ecstasy—‘Roofies’ (the drug, Rohypnol) also. These types of drugs can affect your ability to function.”
Rohypnol (Flunitrazepam) is used in some countries to treat severe insomnia but has also achieved some notoriety globally after instances where the drug was used as a date rape drug.
Young said the raids which have taken Ecstasy off the market—and off the street—would likely mean that the price would have increased. Health Minister Terrence Deyalsingh meanwhile assured that local hospitals have protocols to handle cases of people overdosing on drugs. But Young said as in the case of gunshot wounds, questions would be asked.