Police have issued an urgent warning after a spate of unintentional overdoses caused by contaminated heroin circulating in Wiltshire.

Officers responded to a number of incidents over the weekend of Saturday, August 12, after individuals became “seriously ill” as a result of an unintentional overdose.

These incidents occurred in the Devizes and Chippenham areas and were caused by a “particularly dangerous contaminated supply of heroin”.

In a statement, police warned any heroin users, and those that know them, to be aware of the issue and to exercise extreme caution.

A spokesperson for the force said: “We are taking the unusual step of warning heroin users to be aware of a particularly dangerous contaminated supply of heroin in circulation.

“Whilst we do not condone illegal drug use, we have a duty of care to protect those who may face additional risk because of this particularly dangerous supply.

“If you are a heroin user, or you know someone who is, please exercise extreme caution.”

Help and support for those experiencing drug addiction can be found online via the NHS website and Wiltshire Council drug and alcohol support, or through services such as Change Grow Live and U-TURN.

Friendly, confidential advice can also be found by calling FRANK on 0300 123 6600.