The island’s first interception of a drug concoction known as “pink cocaine” has been confirmed by police.

One person was arrested after the drug was discovered during a routine customs screening at LF Wade International Airport.

“Other conspirators” believed to be involved are being sought, a police spokesman said.

The drug is typically a mixture of MDMA, commonly known as ecstasy, and ketamine, and appears as a bright pink powder.

The police spokesman warned that the combination of substances came with potential for “severe health risks including heart failure, seizures and even death”.

Acting Detective Inspector Mark Raposo of the police drug unit called it “dangerous and unpredictable”.

He added: “The quantities of MDMA and ketamine, which is highly potent even in small amounts, used to produce pink cocaine are usually unknown.

“To make matters worse, pink cocaine can also be mixed with other substances, some of which may be toxic or even lethal. This means users are putting themselves at significant risk.

“We urge the public to stay alert to the dangers posed by this drug and to avoid using it.

“That is the only way to protect against the potentially fatal side effects associated with its use.”

Police warned the public to be vigilant in social spaces such as clubs, bars and party events, and never to accept unknown substances.

The customs department said: “The police service and the customs department are reminding the public never to agree to import or transport packages on behalf of others, particularly when the contents are unknown.

“Individuals who import items into Bermuda are legally responsible for those goods and attempting to bring in prohibited or undeclared items, even unknowingly, can result in arrest, prosecution and the permanent seizure of the goods.

“Customs officers are highly trained to detect suspicious packages and all imports are subject to inspection.

“Border security is a shared responsibility and members of the public are urged to exercise caution and report any suspicious requests or activities related to overseas shipments.”

The department flagged up instances of travellers being approached to bring packages to the island without knowing the contents.

It warned: “This is extremely risky and can have serious legal consequences.

“If you did not pack it, do not carry it. The consequences are not just personal. They affect the safety and security of our entire community.”

Anyone with relevant information should contact the police drug unit on 247-1773 or 717-2487.

They may also call the independent and confidential Crime Stoppers number, 800-8477, or use the police community reporting portal.

According to the US Drug Enforcement Authority, pink cocaine typically contains no cocaine and has been laced with dangerous substances such as fentanyl and xylazine.

Mixtures vary and the drug’s only commonality is its pink colour, typically from food or baking dye.