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But what is flakka?

The drug is a chemical compound which resembles aquarium gravel.

It can either be snorted, injected or vaped.

South African National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence (SANCA) councillor, Lillian Gajoo said to date, the Newcastle offices had no reported cases of flakka being used.

“We are preparing ourselves though, as it is only a matter of time before it makes its way to Newcastle.”

Newcastle SAPS spokesman, Captain Jabulani Ncube confirmed there were no incidents of the drug in Newcastle, as yet.

“We will be keeping an eye open and following up on it though,” he said.

What concerned Gajoo was the serious threat flakka posed.

“It isn’t like other substances like alcohol, dagga or cocaine, where you can give an addict something to calm them down.”