Overdose warning

A SURGE in the trafficking of pure heroin is putting lives at risk. Islanders are being warned that high-purity forms of the drug are coming into the Bailiwick and pose a serious risk of overdose.

Heroin use and seizures of the class A drug are on the rise. So far this year, the Customs and Immigration Service has seized 226g of heroin with an estimated street value of more than £59,000. That is already above last year's total of 188.5g, worth more than £47,000, and the 139.5g, valued in excess of £34,800, in 2004.

Five people have been charged this year in connection with importing the drug into the Bailiwick. Royal Court sentences have ranged from 18 months to nine years.

Chief officer Rob Prow said the purity of the seizures was a major concern, with levels in two substantial hauls found to be 10-20% above the national average.

'When heroin with a high purity is smuggled into the Bailiwick, it may be further cut with adulterants to bulk out the amount of heroin for use.

'However, if used at its original purity, there would be an increased danger of overdose to someone not accustomed to this purity, particularly someone being introduced to the drug for the first time.'

The street price for heroin has remained high, with a small rise identified this year.

'The price will reflect the availability, quality and quantity of the drug purchased.'

He warned that heroin could have a huge impact on society, increasing the risk of hepatitis and HIV and pushing up crimes such as theft and burglary by users desperate to fund their habit. Halting trafficking is a top priority for Customs, which in partnership with police is targeting criminals at the top end.

Although the quantities of heroin seized in the Bailiwick remain relatively small compared with other jurisdictions, syndicates continue to target the islands with a range of drugs. Whenever there is a shortfall in the availability of heroin, a lot of regular users turn to pharmaceuticals - mostly obtained illegally - such as valium, diazepam, temazepam, dihydrocodeine and zimovane. Some users regularly abuse both forms of drug.

Half of all imported heroin seized this year has been concealed internally, presenting a considerable risk to both the individual and the officers, said Mr Prow. Customs has regularly attempted to highlight the risks of carrying drugs.

* Islanders with any information can call a confidential Customs information line on 0800 318 318.