New research by the National Crime Agency (NCA) highlights a troubling rise in the usage of drug cocktails in Britain. These dangerous mixtures, featuring substances like ketamine and cocaine, are fuelling a public health crisis. Combining such drugs often results in unpredictable and life-threatening effects, with rising cases of addiction and overdose.
Ketamine’s Rapid Surge Across the UK
The study reveals ketamine consumption has skyrocketed, increasing from 10.6 tonnes in 2023 to nearly 25 tonnes last year. Major hotspots include Norwich, Liverpool, and Wakefield, where the drug now surpasses heroin in popularity. Ketamine’s growing appeal is linked to its incorporation into designer drug cocktails in the UK, such as “pink cocaine,” a volatile mix that includes ketamine, MDMA, and methamphetamine.
Such cocktails have already claimed lives, including that of One Direction star Liam Payne, whose death followed the use of these substances. Experts warn that adulterated batches of drug cocktails can contain deadly opioids like fentanyl, heightening the risks for young users.
Designer Drugs Driving a Dangerous Addiction Crisis
The prevalence of drug cocktails in Britain is compounded by the rise in cocaine use, which increased to 96,000 kilograms in 2024 compared to 88,000 kilograms the previous year. The estimated street value of this usage is an astonishing £7.7 billion. Cities like Liverpool and Newcastle record the highest cocaine consumption, peaking during events such as the Euro 2024 tournament and Christmas.
Meanwhile, heroin use has seen a slight decline, dropping 11% over the same period. However, areas like Liverpool and Birmingham continue to grapple with high heroin rates.
Designer drugs in the UK, including “Calvin Klein” – a blend of cocaine and ketamine – continue to escalate the crisis. These mixtures often leave users unsure of the substances they are ingesting, increasing the chance of overdose. Reports suggest that these drugs are also being used in nightclubs, where unsuspecting partygoers face the hidden dangers of contaminated mixes.
The NCA also warns of growing drug trafficking networks, with criminals exploiting weaker borders to smuggle substances into the country. These imports exacerbate the supply on Britain’s streets, underlining the need for robust action.
Urgent Measures Needed to Tackle the Crisis
The Government has responded by introducing tougher laws through the Crime and Policing Bill. Proposals include making “cuckooing” illegal, where vulnerable people’s homes are taken over for illicit activities. Additionally, offenders who exploit children for drug trafficking could face up to 10 years in prison under the proposed legislation designed to protect vulnerable individuals.
The rapid rise in drug cocktails in Britain is a clear and urgent warning. Increased awareness, stricter policies, and community action are essential to combat this growing threat to public health and safety.
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