NBI confirms 1 of 5 concert casualties tested positive for 2 drugs


National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) reports that one of the five people who died at a concert in Pasay City two weeks ago had tested positive for two synthetic drugs.

Chief of staff of NBI’s forensic division Dr. Rommel Papa said they found traces of methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) methylene homolog and methylenedioxy cathinone commonly known as “bath salts.”


“Based on the autopsy report, several specimens were taken—blood, liver, brain, kidney, stomach contents—and found in the deceased body (was) the presence of methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) methylene homolog and methylenedioxy cathinone,” Papa said, describing the two as “illicit substances.”

He also claims that the test was verified by the forensic chemistry division.

Papa did not reveal the victim who was tested positive for the two illicit substances per family's request.

NBI claims that MDMA methylene homolog is used for forensic tests and is not fit for human consumption.

According to Papa, the substances are classified as “psychoactive,” “mind-altering” and “hallucinogenic” drugs.

“Those who take these drugs could not sleep, (could) hear voices and become paranoid. They can suffer rapid heart beat, increased blood pressure and muscle spasms,” Papa said.

“Maybe they do not know what they took. Let us not judge them. Let us not label them. How that drug got into their system is another question,” he added.

Two fatalities have underwent autopsy and based on findings, they died of heart attacks with pulmonary edema. Papa said the same person that tested positive for the two synthetic substances tested negative for alcohol.


The NBI said they would coordinate with the Philippine National Police to compare the results of the tests on the victims.


Source: Philippine Daily Inquirer
Image: Manila Bulletin

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