Tragic Overdose Incident Claims Lives in Astrakhan, Russia

In Astrakhan, Russia, at least three individuals have lost their lives due to an overdose of the synthetic opioid methadone, as reported by the TASS agency, citing an unnamed source in the security forces. However, Izvestia, relying on an anonymous police informant, states that the death toll is four.

Over the past few days, approximately 20 people displaying symptoms of overdose were admitted to hospitals in Astrakhan. On the evening of November 20, six of them were reported to be in critical condition, according to the regional Ministry of Health. Channel 112, affiliated with the security forces, indicates that 24 individuals were hospitalized.

According to investigators, the victims were poisoned because they mistakenly identified methadone as another substance. In other words, individuals seeking drugs believed they were purchasing mephedrone, a substance unrelated to opioids.

The Ministry of Internal Affairs has detained three foreigners—citizens of Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, and Tajikistan—on suspicion of selling narcotic substances that led to the poisoning of victims. A criminal case has been initiated in response to this tragic incident.