Lethbridge police are warning the public after suspected fentanyl in the shape of a candy bear was found in Galt Gardens.
“On June 20, 2023 a member of the Downtown Policing Unit located an unattended bag on the east side of the park. Inside was a small quantity of suspected fentanyl coloured greenish-blue in a bear shape that could be mistaken for candy. The container holding the bear also included suspected fentanyl pieces in other colours,” reads a news release from the Lethbridge Police Service.
LPS says it is not known whether the bear-shaped drugs is part of a larger batch of drugs. If members of the public come across something similar, police advise them to not touch it and to call LPS immediately.
“Disguising fentanyl to look like a piece of candy is a significant safety concern given the potential it could be mistaken for something less deadly,” said Sgt. Ryan Darroch with the Downtown Policing Unit. “We want the community to be aware this bear was found in a public park so they can take steps to protect themselves.”
Police say using bright colours or molds to create shapes is not uncommon in the illicit production of fentanyl. It’s a trend that has emerged in recent years across Canada and the U.S.
The suspected fentanyl bear has been sent to the RCMP lab for further analysis and substance confirmation. Results are not anticipated for at least several weeks.