A 19-year-old man from Redbridge, Bryan Tegunde, of Cambridge Park Road in Wanstead, has been charged alongside another individual after three drug-related deaths occurred in Essex.
Essex Police launched an investigation into drug supply in Colchester following the tragic deaths of two individuals over the weekend of May 11 and 12, with a third fatality reported on May 14. Fortunately, a fourth individual who fell ill on May 14 received prompt medical attention and survived.
Each of these incidents has been linked to the consumption of Class A drugs, according to Essex Police.
Specialist officers from Essex Police’s Operation Raptor made three arrests as part of their ongoing inquiries. Bryan Tegunde is one of those arrested and has been charged with being concerned in the supply of heroin and crack cocaine. He appeared at Chelmsford Magistrates’ Court on Thursday, May 16.
Additionally, 20-year-old Sabrino Hajderaj, of Sunny Bank in Croydon, faces charges including possessing a bladed article in a public space and possession with intent to supply heroin and crack cocaine. He appeared at Chelmsford Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday, May 15, and has been remanded in custody until a hearing at Ipswich Crown Court scheduled for June 12.
A 21-year-old man from London has been released on bail pending further enquiries.
Inspector Mark Jones, from Raptor North, expressed the grim reality of Class A drug use, emphasizing the inherent risks associated with these substances. He highlighted Essex Police’s diligent efforts to tackle drug supply in Colchester and ensure those involved are apprehended.
Inspector Christopher Coyles, of Colchester’s Local Policing Team, assured the public of continued vigilance in the city, with heightened patrols in areas like Castle Park and the city center. He emphasized the importance of identifying and safeguarding individuals at risk while urging against the use of illegal substances.
Essex Police urges anyone with concerns or in need of support related to drug use to seek assistance from organizations like Open Road, emphasizing the dangers and potential harm of illegal drug consumption.
The investigation into the drug-related deaths remains ongoing, with Essex Police maintaining a proactive stance in combating drug supply and safeguarding communities across the county.
