‘Zombie drug’ hits South Africa

PANIC has risen in South Africa with the synthetic drug Flakka, also known as the ‘zombie drug’, having hit the shores of Durban.

Various videos of people allegedly under the influence of the drug have surfaced on social media with people doing bizarre and completely absurd things.

People who take the drug are often left unable to talk and have no idea what is going on around them until the drug wears off. When people take the drug, they become a clear danger to themselves and others.

The drug is said to cause hallucinations, spikes in body temperature, an increased sex-drive, panic and hysteria to its users.

The drug can make users have feelings of super strength coupled with a pure feeling of rage.

So why would anyone want to use a drug of this calibre?

Research has shown that flakka affords users the same high as cocaine at an extremely low prize.

One of the earliest stories of Flakka in Durban was that of a man who bit off a chunk of someone’s arm while high.

Despite it being a cheap alternative, flakka has a worse effect on the neurological system as it stays in the brain longer than cocaine.

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Captain Cheryl Venter from the Vryheid SAPS warns locals to refrain from drinking from glasses when they are at parties and to avoid asking for ice as these may be laced with drugs.

“Always rather opt for a can and always ensure that you hear it making the ‘pshhh’ sound indicating that the acid is still there and it has not been tampered with,” she said.

Local Psycholgical Councillor and mother, Nadine Pillay, described the videos she has seen of people on flakka as absolutely terrifying.

“I feel that it comes from a deep disregard for the self. Self hate or a deep seated death wish”, she said, as it is difficult to understand why anyone would take the drug having seen the effect it has on users.

Nadine advises parents to stay informed and be observant of their children.

“Know your children’s whereabouts and who they hang out with. Keep having conversations with them about drug and alcohol abuse, etc”, she said.

No stories of flakka have been reported in Northern KZN but community members are warned to be vigilant and to keep their children informed.