Police warning after 11 people taken to hospital due to 'effects of drug use'

The force posted the warning on its official social media channels at around 5.30pm on Saturday and called on people to seek immediate medical attention if they become unwell.

A statement said: “Police have issued a warning after eleven people from the Cleveland area have been taken to hospital this afternoon due to the effects of drug use.

“Early indications suggest that they could have become ill due to the use of the drug spice, although this is not confirmed.

"Due to the number of people in hospital, it is likely that there is a particularly strong or 'bad batch' in circulation, however the circumstances are being looked into.

“Those who do take illegal drugs should be aware, refrain from their use, and seek immediate medical attention if they become unwell.”

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