The Regina Police Service said Friday there have been 11 deaths due to drug overdoses since the start of the year and nine other deaths may yet be connected to the use of illicit drugs.
In a media release, police said there were five apparent overdoses Friday, including one person who died.
Since Jan. 1, there have been 208 overdoses in the city. Police officers have been called to 103 of those cases and have administered naloxone 24 times.
“The Regina Police Service is, once again, asking Regina residents to be vigilant in reporting illegal drug use and potential overdoses in our community,” the release said.
“Success in drug trafficking investigations, on its own, is not enough to eliminate the problem of drug abuse, addiction and overdoses. Education, treatment, interventions, and supports are key elements in creating safe and healthy communities.”
Police are asking anyone who may have information about illegal drug use to call them at 306-777-6500 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.