The Ministry of Homeland Security and Technology has cautioned the public about a new and dangerous type of drug that is currently in circulation in international markets.
The Ministry, in an announcement, said that "Fentanyl-laced drugs," also known by its street name "China White," are produced using large amounts of harmful chemicals, posing a life-threatening risk to users.
The drug, used as a substitute for heroin, is 20 to 40 times more potent than heroin and 100 times more potent than morphine. It is also more difficult to treat in cases of overdose. It is also alleged to have a higher number of overdose deaths compared to heroin.
"The Ministry of Homeland Security and Technology, the National Drug Agency and all relevant authorities are working in collaboration to take all necessary measures in this regard," the announcement said.
The United States has also held talks with China to discuss ways to curb the flow of chemicals fueling the US. fentanyl crisis. This crisis has led to an epidemic of addiction, with 100,000 overdose deaths a year, making it the leading cause of death for people aged 18 to 49 in the United States.