One dead, four in critical condition after taking "highly potent" MDMA

A 25-year-old man has died and four people are critically ill after taking what police are calling "highly potent" MDMA.

A total of 11 people were rushed to hospital in Oldham on Saturday night after taking MDMA resembling brown sugar. Police say its local street name is "pink champagne".

The Greater Manchester Police force has released a statement saying: “If you think you may have taken the drug or know somebody who has then you need to seek medical attention. If you believe somebody else has taken it and begins to show one of the following symptoms then get them to a hospital immediately”. Signs to look out for include rigid muscles, shallow breathing, a fast racing pulse, hyper-aggression, seizure, foaming at the mouth and unconsciousness.

A 26-year old man was arrested on suspicion of supplying Class A drugs, and has since been released under investigation.

Police are asking anyone with relevant information to come forward. Chief Superintendent Neil Evans said: “We are appealing for anyone with any information about where this drug is coming from to get in touch as soon as possible.”

The Police warning and more information can be found here.