RCMP concerned about trend of highly potent illegal drugs in NL

    Wednesday, 20 November 2024 12:00

    By Tonya Organ

    Superintendent Stephane Thoms says synthetic opioids can be made just about anywhere in a clandestine lab. 17 people are facing charges and 8 of them are still wanted by police. 

    RCMP have concerns now that nitazine, a powerful synthetic opioid, has been found in this province. A lab test has confirmed its presence from drugs found in parts of Labrador. An 11-month investigation and searches of homes in Happy Valley Goose Bay and Sheshatshiu, netted seizures of cocaine, heroin, multiple pills, LSD, crystal meth,, ten grand, and more. Superintendent Stephane Thoms says these blue pills with nitazine were made to look like oxycodone. 

    About 200 grams of cocaine, as well as crack cocaine was found and Thoms says this cocaine is very potent and purity is in the high nineties. He says this is a trend police have noticed. Thoms says synthetic opioids can be made just about anywhere in a clandestine lab.. 17 people are facing charges and 8 of them are still wanted by police. 

     

     

     

    To report an error, submit a news tip, or provide feedback, please e-mail news@bayfm.ca or call (709) 637-0183.

    More from Local News

     

     

     

    BayFM recognizes support from the following agencies:

                        

    Today's Weather

    • Corner Brook

      Heavy snow

      High: -4°C | Low: -6°C

    • Deer Lake

      Heavy snow

      High: -3°C | Low: -5°C

    • Stephenville

      Light snow

      High: -4°C | Low: -5°C

    Recently Played

    Podcasts

    • BayFM On-Demand

      Trask Talk Thursday, January 29, 2026

      Lynn Howse Regional Outreach Officer Western Regional Waste Management and Lenny Benoit talk trash

    • The Plain Truth

      The Plain Truth, January 28, 2026

      “Trigger Warning”, Today’s show contains discussion of intimate images which may be disturbing for some listeners. We ask that you consider your needs and engage with this material in a way that is best for you. Please take care of yourself and reach out for help if you need it.

    • Qalipu Today

      Qalipu Today, Tuesday January 27, 2026

      Qalipu Today is back with it's first show since the Chirstmas break