Police in Saint John say officers have responded to a massive spike in calls surrounding drug overdose in the last week.
A news release says police responded to around 30 per cent more medical assistance calls connected to drug overdoses in the first four months of 2022 compared to 2021.
Police responded to 18 drug overdose calls between April 23 to 30, with at least eight cases involving the possible use of fentanyl.
In comparison, police responded to only six similar calls the week before.
“Although this represents a small sample size, it may also be indicative that a more potent or dangerous substance is currently circulating in the community,” said police in the news release.
“We all recognize that homelessness, poverty, mental health and substance dependency are significant issues in our community and that they are complex social issues that require solutions from many stakeholders, not just the police.”
Police Chief Robert Bruce will host a roundtable discussion with numerous stakeholders and government officials this month as part of a Community Action Group.
It’s with the hope to begin discussions on how to best respond to these issues.