Tasmania Police has issued a public safety warning after five people were hospitalised after consuming illicit drugs in Smithton.

“Taking illicit drugs is of course always dangerous for your health. However on separate occasions over the weekend, four men and one teenage girl were taken to hospital after each consumed a capsule of what they believed to be ‘ecstasy’,” said Detective Inspector Kim Steven.

“Soon after, each of them began to feel extremely unwell and their symptoms included dilated pupils, violent vomiting and unconsciousness,” said Det. Insp. Steven.

Friends of those affected took them to hospital; all but one person was later released.

Each of the five people had purchased a clear capsule containing brown grains/powder. The capsules were purchased outside a licensed premises in Smithton around 8pm.

“Investigations are continuing into the source of these drugs. We’d urge anyone not to consume any illicit substance, and in particular any capsules containing brown powder,” said Det. Insp. Steven.

Anyone with information about these matters is asked to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.