RCMP CONCERNED WITH USE OF KETAMINE BY YOUTH

Gabriola RCMP are concerned about the use of ketamine by local youth
after a recent incident.

Cst. Mike Reid said RCMP were called in by BC Ambulance to a residence
in the south end of Gabriola where it was reported a youth had
overdosed after taking ketamine.

Mike said, "We've confirmed ketamine is on Gabriola. We are concerned
about it's presence, and encourage frank discussion between parents
and youth on island over the use of such a drug.

"We've heard that it is available at parties on Gabriola, we're hoping
to educate the public, parents in particular, about the drug.

"Make yourselves aware of the risks."

Ketamine is primarily used as a sedative and anesthetic for both
humans and in veterinary medicine. Mike explained the drug is popular
with youth as they can feel like they are drunk, without smelling like
they've been drinking. It is also popular with teens concerned about
weight, as there are no calories.

One of the biggest concerns is that like GHB and Rhypnol, ketamine has
been used in sexual assaults as a date rape drug.

A very small dose can be effective and is difficult to detect with
drug tests 48 hours after it is taken. Ketamine is ingested orally,
injected, smoked and snorted.

Mike explained, "we're concerned that with a house party, where people
think they can trust people, they are vulnerable to a risk like this.
The friend of a friend is not always a friend."

In other RCMP news on the weekend, Mike reported two vehicles had been
stolen. A blue and white Honday Jazz scooter was stolen on Friday from
the Pinewood Road area. Sometime before 11 p.m. on Friday night, a
brown Toyota Camry was stolen. The Camry was located on Saturday,
ditched near Dogwood with the stereo stolen.

Mike asked if anyone has any information about ketamine, or the stolen
vehicles, to please call Crimestoppers at 18002228477