Deadly ecstasy substitute in WA
Police have warned of a deadly ecstasy substitute which has made its way into the WA recreational drug scene.
Para-methoxy-N-methylamphetamine (PMMA) has been blamed for five deaths in the UK in the past five weeks, as well as the death of a Queensland man in September.
Typically sold as grey and white spotted tablets, fragment or powders, PMMA has been fraudulently sold as ecstasy.
Police identified the first example of PMMA in WA in September and have now processed nine positive samples of the drug.
Police said PMMA is an Alkoxyphenylethylamine, listed in Schedule 9 of the Poisons Act 1964.
Due to its structural similarity to para-methoxy-N-amphetamine, PMMA is understood to have similar stimulant, psychedelic and potentially lethal effects.
Police have urged anyone in possession of the substance to destroy it.
Those with information on the importation, distribution or manufacture of the drug are asked to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
