Hertfordshire police issue drugs warning after deaths

A senior police officer has issued a warning about the dangers of illegal drugs following the deaths of two young men believed to have taken ecstasy.

A 21-year-old man from Watford died on 29 November and a man from Aylesbury, also 21, died on 12 December.

Hertfordshire Police is investigating the deaths. Both thought to have taken MDMA (ecstasy).

Assistant Chief Constable Jon Boutcher said the public needed to be aware of the risks.

He said: "We would like to remind the public of the inherent risks in taking illegal drugs.

"In particular at this time of year when people are out celebrating before Christmas.

"Both deaths are subject to a coroner's investigation and police inquiries are taking place.

"Results from toxicology and other tests are still awaited, consequently causes of these tragic deaths have not been fully ascertained.

"However we do have indications that they both took the drug MDMA.

"Our thoughts and sympathies are with the families of these two young men at this very difficult time."