Daily Mirror (Northern Ireland)
Police ‘Darth Vader’ drug warning after teen falls ill
POLICE yesterday issued a drugs warning after a schoolboy was rushed to hospital after reportedly taking a so-called Darth Vader pill.
They said the 14-year-old was taken to the Ulster Hospital when he took just half a tablet in Holywood, Co Down, on Saturday.
Images published on the PSNI’S social media outlets shows bags of the tablets, which are shaped like the Star Wars villain.
Officers said they were “warning the public about the potential dangers posed by as yet unidentified tablets described as Darth Vaders.
A 17-year-old has been charged with a number of offences – including possessing a class A drug with intent to supply – in connection to the incident.
He is due to appear at Newtownards Youth Court today.
The Public Health Agency said it was too early to comment on the Darth Vader pill, but warned “all drugs carry risks, therefore the Public Health Agency strongly recommends that you do not take them”.
It added: “If you have taken drugs and are feeling unwell, please seek medical help urgently.”
Ulster Unionist Assembly candidate Alan Chambers said he was “horrified” at what has happened.
He added: “I urge anyone who has any information about the supply of illegal drugs to contact police.”