A major emergency response unfolded this afternoon in Pencester Road, Dover, following reports that several people may have been affected by a “bad batch” of drugs, resulting in multiple hospitalizations.
Shortly before 4 PM, emergency services, including paramedics, police, and the fire service, swarmed the town centre after receiving calls of multiple people in distress. Witnesses at the scene reported chaotic scenes, with several individuals collapsing and requiring urgent medical attention.
Multiple Casualties Reported
While official confirmation is still pending, it is understood that several people have been taken to hospital for treatment. Kent Police and South East Coast Ambulance Service have yet to release official statements regarding the extent of the incident.
Local resident Sarah Allen, 39, described the distressing scene: “I came out of the doctors’ at around 3:50 PM and saw around 11 paramedic cars, a fire engine, and a police car. There was a man on a stretcher near Caffe Macaris surrounded by medics. Another man on a bench near me was swaying and eventually slumped over, needing help to get to an ambulance.”
She also mentioned her husband saw another person being placed into an ambulance further down the road, suggesting more than one individual had been affected.
A Suspected “Bad Batch” of Drugs
Sources close to the investigation have indicated that the incident may be linked to a “bad batch” of drugs circulating in the area. While details remain scarce, authorities are investigating the possibility that contaminated substances may have caused the sudden medical emergencies.
A Kent Police spokesperson confirmed: “We are currently attending an incident on Pencester Road following reports of several people falling ill. Initial reports suggest this may be linked to drug use. We urge anyone who may have taken substances in the area to seek medical attention immediately if they feel unwell.”
Eyewitness Accounts Highlight Urgency
Footage from the scene shows multiple ambulances and emergency vehicles blocking Pencester Road, with paramedics attending to patients on the pavement and moving them into ambulances. Witnesses described medics giving oxygen to some individuals and performing checks for others.
Another local, who preferred not to be named, shared: “It was shocking. There were people slumped on benches and on the ground. The emergency teams were incredible, but it’s heartbreaking to see.”
Public Health Warnings Issued
Health officials have issued an urgent public warning, cautioning residents about the potential risks associated with unregulated substances. Local pharmacies and clinics have been alerted to be on the lookout for anyone showing signs of drug poisoning, including dizziness, confusion, or loss of consciousness.
Police Appeal for Information
Kent Police have launched a full investigation and are urging anyone with information about the source of the suspected drugs to come forward. They are also appealing to any other individuals who may have been affected but haven’t yet sought medical help.
Community in Shock
Dover’s town centre has been left rattled by today’s events. Many residents expressed concerns about the increasing presence of drugs in the area, calling for more proactive measures to protect vulnerable individuals.
Authorities have not ruled out the possibility that contaminated drugs may have spread to other parts of the town and are urging caution until more is known.
