A fuzzy video call reveals a clear attempt to sell illegal drugs destined for Canada. The seller, known as Kim, offers cocaine, methamphetamine, MDMA, and nitazenes—a potent class of synthetic opioids more powerful than fentanyl. During a recorded call, a CBC journalist questions the deadly nature of nitazenes, to which the seller nonchalantly acknowledges the risks.
The CBC’s visual investigation unit engaged with 14 individuals through social media ads, connecting with drug dealers claiming international criminal affiliations. Notably, nitazenes, unapproved for medical use and classified as Schedule 1 drugs, have increasingly surfaced in drug seizures nationwide.
Recent incidents in Quebec uncovered over a million counterfeit oxycodone pills containing protonitazepyne, a type of nitazene. Shockingly, data from CBC’s investigations indicate hundreds of Canadian deaths attributed to nitazenes in the past four years, with North America being a major consumer and victim of these potent opioids.
Nitazenes, despite being less popular than fentanyl, offer a stronger high, often unknowingly consumed by drug users in counterfeit pills. Tragically, cases like Mathis, a 15-year-old who died from a nitazene overdose, highlight the devastating impact of these substances on families.
The global reach of nitazene sellers was evident, with operations spanning various countries and continents. Sellers utilized online ads on platforms like LinkedIn, Reddit, and Adobe-owned Behance to market nitazenes, often employing creative smuggling methods such as concealing drugs in everyday items for shipment to Canada.
Authorities are monitoring the evolving threat of nitazenes, with the emergence of stricter measures like Bill C-2 to combat illicit drug trafficking. Concerns persist about the underreporting of nitazene-related deaths, emphasizing the urgent need for enhanced regulations and penalties to address this growing public health crisis.