Regina police warn public of fentanyl influx after alleged theft

Regina police are warning about a possible influx of fentanyl in the Queen City.

Officers saidthedrug enforcement team is investigating a recent theft of the prescription drug andpainkiller..

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Fentanyl poses a serious and potentially fatal health risk when not taken under the direction of medical professionals, according to police

Saskatchewan's coroner's office said 25 people have died of fentanyl overdoses in the province between Jan. 1, 2013, and Aug. 31, 2015. Five of those deaths happened in Regina and 12 deaths in Saskatoon.

The drug can cause respiratory arrest and be 50 to 100 times more potent than heroin, oxycodone or morphine.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Regina Police or Crime Stoppers.