Five people have been arrested in Hull on suspicion of drug offences after the death of a man and reports of several others falling ill.
Humberside Police were alerted on Monday, December 2, when ambulance services responded to Pryme Street car park, reporting the death of a man suspected of overdosing on drugs. Over the following two days, 20 people were reported to have fallen ill, with police suspecting the involvement of a contaminated batch of the drug “spice.”
Those arrested include:
- A 27-year-old man and a 36-year-old woman on suspicion of being involved in the supply of Class B drugs. Both remain in police custody.
- A 46-year-old man on suspicion of supplying Class B drugs, possession of Class C drugs, and theft of a bicycle. He also remains in custody and is being questioned by detectives.
- Two 38-year-old men, one arrested on suspicion of possession with intent to supply Class B drugs and the other on suspicion of involvement in the supply of Class B drugs and theft. Both have been released under investigation while inquiries continue.
Detective Chief Inspector Jon Cross stated:
“As part of our initial lines of enquiry, we suspect the man’s death and the subsequent illnesses are linked to the contamination of a batch of drugs believed to be ‘spice.’
“While the investigation is in its early stages, I can confirm that five arrests have been made. House-to-house inquiries, CCTV reviews, searches, and forensic analyses are being carried out with the assistance of specialist experts.”
DCI Cross extended condolences to the family of the deceased man, who is receiving support from police.
DCI Cross urged the public to come forward with any relevant information:
“I would appeal to anyone who may have information that could assist our investigation to contact us on the non-emergency number 101, quoting log 152 of December 2.”
The investigation remains ongoing, with authorities working to establish the origin of the contaminated drugs and prevent further incidents.
