Last year, more than 3,000 deaths were reported due to drug overdoses in New York, and a staggering 89% of them were linked to the dangerous synthetic drug known as fentanyl. This indicates a worrying increase in drug-related fatalities in the state.
The streets are now being flooded with a new synthetic drug that is incredibly lethal, causing a renewed sense of concern among many.
Carfentanil, a potent drug that can sedate even an elephant, is deadly enough to cause death with just a tiny amount. Sadly, in the city, this drug has been responsible for at least seven overdose deaths this year.
Bridget Brennan, the Special Narcotics Prosecutor, expressed her concern about the possibility of a surge in the number.
According to PIX11 News, the current state of the street drug market is more dangerous than ever before. As stated by an expert, “You may buy something that will kill you.” The warning highlights the severity of the situation and the potential harm that can come from purchasing street drugs.
According to Brennan, Carfentanil is a fine powder that originates from China and is smuggled into the illegal drug market via Mexico. She further explained that undercover agents are ramping up their efforts to trace the origin and the individuals responsible for its distribution. Brennan expressed concern that if the situation goes unchecked, similar to what happened with fentanyl, overdose cases could surge to unprecedented levels. She emphasized the lethality of the substance by stating that even a minute quantity, as small as a grain, is potent enough to take a life.
Carfentanil has been detected in all five boroughs, with the majority of seizures taking place in Brooklyn. A recent seizure occurred in Bushwick, highlighting the presence of the drug in the region.
Brennan stated that the seized bags contained carfentanil which was mixed with various drugs such as cocaine, fentanyl, and heroin that appear as white powder. She emphasized that the individuals who use these drugs are not intentionally choosing carfentanil. They are unaware that their drugs are mixed with carfentanil, which can be lethal. The responsibility of this deadly mixture lies with the sellers.
The city and state health departments have raised an alarm over the increase in overdose cases. They have issued public health alerts, cautioning against the use of a lethal new drug that is being added to already hazardous substances.
The special prosecutor delivered a sobering fact that added to the already frightening situation – “While fentanyl kills quickly, carfentanil, which is 100 times more powerful, is even more lethal,” she declared.
Carfentanil is an extremely potent drug that can pose a serious threat to first responders and law enforcement personnel who come into accidental contact with it. Those who use this drug may experience a range of harmful effects, including dizziness, clammy skin, heart failure, and other serious health problems. It’s important to recognize the dangers of carfentanil and understand that using this drug could ultimately cost you your life.