POLICE in Essex have issued a stark warning to drug users that a “bad or unusually strong” batch of heroin maybe in circulation after three drugs-related deaths in Colchester.

POLICE in Essex have issued a stark warning to drug users that a “bad or unusually strong” batch of heroin maybe in circulation after three drugs-related deaths in Colchester.

The deaths, in just over two weeks and all from suspected heroin overdoses, have prompted the public warning - with detectives telling users they are “gambling with their lives”.

But police in the town say they are determined to continue their campaign to rid local streets of the class A drug and prevent further deaths.

Detective Inspector Stuart Smith, of Colchester CID, said: “We are awaiting the results of the post mortem examinations.

“We are aware that there have been three recent deaths that related to heroin usage and a report is being prepared for the coroner.

“We are following up the possibility that a bad batch or unusually strong batch of heroin is in circulation.

“We are in the process of gathering intelligence and working with our partners in order to ascertain where the drugs are coming from and taking appropriate action.”

At about 6.45 on Monday evening, police were called to Buffett Way on the Greenstead estate by ambulance crews after a man was found unconscious.

The 33-year-old man was confirmed dead a short time later.

However, less than two days later, police were called to the same address where the body of a woman was discovered.

Both deaths are thought to be the results of suspected overdoses and police are not treating either death as suspicious.

Another man died from a suspected heroin overdose in Colchester two weeks ago.

If anybody has any information about dealing drugs, in particular heroin or cocaine, they can contact Colchester police on 01206 762212 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.