Israel Police cracking down after synthetic drugs kill three in same week

In the past week, three young people in central Israel were found dead after reportedly consuming synthetic drugs, raising concerns over the growing dangers of such substances.

Authorities are investigating whether these deaths are connected, with toxicology reports still pending. The tragedies reveal an alarming trend in the use of synthetic and psychedelic drugs, and experts warn that society is struggling to regain control.

The first incident occurred last Saturday at a spa in Rishon Lezion, where two young men, aged 20 and 24, were found unconscious. The 24-year-old died at the scene, while his friend was hospitalized in critical condition.

The two had traveled from a village near Jerusalem for a weekend getaway. Police confirmed there were no signs of foul play, but the circumstances indicated drug use, and the investigation remains ongoing.

The second case involved Daniel Marziko, a 25-year-old model, found dead in an Airbnb apartment in Bat Yam. His friends reported seeing foam coming from his mouth earlier that morning. Marziko had attended a party the night before and consumed drugs. Investigations suggest his death may also be linked to dangerous substance use.

A third case, also linked to drugs, involved a woman in her 30s who was found dead in central Israel just days before the two men.

The rising number of drug-related deaths has highlighted Israel's increasing struggle with synthetic drugs. Police are investigating whether a new substance has entered the market or if this is part of a deadly wave of new chemicals that are harder to trace and more dangerous to users.

Uri Ben Hamo, a police officer with years of experience in drug enforcement, stated that the issue is not new but has intensified. "This is our daily bread," he said. "Drugs are everywhere in Israel, but central areas have higher consumption rates. We live with this fight every day, and it’s only getting worse."

Synthetic drugs, often produced in makeshift labs or homes, have become widespread. These substances are highly unpredictable and dangerous, making them a constant threat, with users unknowingly consuming lethal combinations.

Police are struggling to keep up with the ever-evolving nature of the drug trade, particularly as traffickers increasingly use encrypted apps like Telegram to facilitate the illegal trade.

Ben Hamo emphasized the shift toward synthetic substances, which include dangerous chemical concoctions like "Dosa" and "Captagon." These drugs can cause severe psychological effects and, in some cases, result in death. "In recent cases, we are seeing a deadly game of Russian roulette, where each dose could be the last."

He also warned that drug use among young people is alarmingly accessible. "The youngest user I’ve encountered was only 10 years old," he said. "Drugs are now easier to get than ordering a pizza. It’s too accessible, too dangerous, and too tempting for many."

The struggle for law enforcement continues as criminals involved in drug trafficking constantly adapt and evade detection. "When we catch one dealer, another takes their place," Ben Hamo explained. "It’s a never-ending chase." Police are working with international authorities to track shipments of illicit substances, but it remains an uphill battle.

Despite the hard work of law enforcement, the system is constrained by legal limitations and a shortage of resources. Additionally, there are gaps in monitoring drug prescriptions and licenses, which makes it easier for individuals to access harmful substances undetected.

Ben Hamo called for tougher laws and penalties. "If someone is caught with 15 grams of cannabis, there's nothing we can do. It’s considered personal use," he noted. "The government needs to renew the emergency regulation, and officials must take action to address this gap in the law."

One drug, "Dosa," has gained notoriety for its lethal properties. Ben Hamo described it as "pink and seemingly harmless," but deadly in certain doses. He emphasized that the quality of synthetic drugs is unpredictable, as they are produced in unsafe, unregulated environments, often leading to dangerous and even fatal consequences for users.

In the wake of the October 7 attacks, there has been an increase in the use of stimulant drugs like "Captagon," which were reportedly used by the terrorists. This drug, originally used by ISIS, has now spread to Israel’s nightlife scene, adding to the country’s growing concerns.

Dr. Roy Zucker, an expert in internal medicine and harm reduction, stressed that these incidents are not coincidental. He warned that the rise in substance abuse, especially following the October attacks, demands immediate attention and better regulation to prevent further deaths.

According to the latest report from the Israeli Center for Addictions and Mental Health, over 26% of Israelis are using substances at high-risk levels, with significant increases in the consumption of sleeping pills, opioids, and stimulants. Moreover, 16% of Israelis report experiencing significant post-traumatic stress symptoms, up from 12% before the war.

As the investigation into the recent deaths continues, it is clear that this is no longer just a series of isolated incidents. Rather, it is a reflection of a deeper societal issue, one where synthetic drugs are becoming more accessible, more lethal, and more widespread than ever before.