One Dead, Several Poisoned, Allegedly by New Drug

Georgian media reports that a new drug, Mephedrone, also known as bath salts, drone, M-CAT and White Magic, has become widespread throughout Georgia. It is now alleged to be the reason of the death of a 22-year-old man on Friday, who died right after being delivered to the hospital.

As Rustavi 2 TV reports, several more men were also poisoned, allegedly by Mephedrone, adding that in their cases, doctors managed to save their lives.

Doctors explain the drug comes in the form of tablets or powder, which users swallow, snort or inject, producing similar effects to MDMA, amphetamines and cocaine. They also warn people that the drug is extremely harmful and can cause immediate death in case of overdose. It also causes hallucinations and mental disorder and is highly addictive.

According to unverified sources, Mephedrone and similar drugs are sold at night clubs by drug dealers who assure customers the substance is a “club drug” and is “harmless.”

An investigation has been launched into the cause of the 22-year-old’s death.

Davit Subeliani, member of the White Noise Movement, which calls for a more liberal drug policy in the country, believes that the strict narco-policy is the reason new and dangerous drugs are being introduced into Georgia on the black market.

“On one hand, the repressive drug policy makes the black market even more uncontrollable, while on the other, the government fails to inform society about drug threats or does not implement effective preventive measures,” he stated.

The current law existing in Georgia, envisages from 8 to 20 years in prison for storage or use of drugs.

Narcological clinics say more and more new and dangerous drugs are entering Georgia, adding the number of drug-addicted patients has also increased of late.

Deputy Director of the Drug Addiction and Mental Health Management Center, Khatuna Todadze, told Rustavi 2 that youth tend to start experimenting with drugs at nightclubs.

“These drugs cause strong addiction and after tasting it once, the youth have an intense desire to try it again, even when they are not at clubs,” she added.

By Thea Morrison

Photo source: worldatlas.com