Pink cocaine and synthetic cannabinoids are the new drugs circulating in France, according to a study by the French Observatory on Drugs and Drug Addiction (OFDT), AFP reports.
This study, based on more than 600 samples collected in 2022, notes the high content of cocaine. The Observatory warns that "increasing cocaine content increases the risk of acute intoxication and the development of complications related to its toxicity." Over 56% of the cocaine samples analysed contained no cutting agents.
OFDT also noted the "numerous fraudulent uses" without users' knowledge of 3-MMC, a synthetic drug classified as an opiate in the Netherlands.
"In 2022, of the 56 samples collected that claimed to be 3-MMC, only 12 (21.4%) were actually composed exclusively of 3-MMC," OFDT said.
Another product, 'pink cocaine', which comes in the form of pink powder, was first spotted in France in 2022.
Analysis revealed a recurring combination of MDMA and ketamine, with no cocaine present. This little-known product could cause "unexpected complications for users due to its misleading name," OFDT continued.
The report also highlighted the emergence of a new synthetic cannabinoid, hexahydrocannabinol (HHC), coming to France in autumn 2022.
Regarding heroin, the report noted a "prevalence of low concentration heroin", i.e. heroin cut with other substances.
At the end of January, French Interior Minister Gérald Darmanin expressed concern about the sharp increase in synthetic drug trafficking, with more than 180% more drugs seized in 2023 compared to the previous year.
According to the ministry, 4.15 million ecstasy and MDMA tablets (compared to 1.4 million in 2022) and 418 kg of amphetamines and methamphetamines (198 kg in 2022) were seized in France in 2023.
At the end of January, a "European Ports Alliance" to combat drug trafficking was launched in Antwerp, Belgium, the main gateway for cocaine to Europe. / BGNES
