PORT-OF-SPAIN, Trinidad (CMC) — Trinidad health authorities say they have launched “an immediate” investigation into the disappearance of 300 vials of Fentanyl injection that have been reported as unaccounted for, following a delivery discrepancy to one of the public health facilities

In a statement, Trinidad’s Ministry of Health said Fentanyl is a narcotic used only under strict medical supervision in hospital settings and that possession, use or distribution of fentanyl without proper authorisation is illegal and dangerous.

According to the country’s health ministry, the missing 300 vials of Fentanyl Injection 0.05mg/ml/2ml ampoules had been brought to its attention last week and that an “immediate investigative action was taken”.

It said that among the steps taken were site inspections at the dispatch and delivery locations, verification of delivery records, stock documentation and package markings as well as requests for detailed reports and video footage from the relevant facilities.

“The ministry views this matter with the utmost seriousness, given the dangerous nature of fentanyl, which is a potent synthetic opioid that, even in small quantities, can cause severe respiratory distress and death if misused or improperly handled.”

The Trinidadian ministry said it is reminding the public that anyone “who encounters or is offered fentanyl should immediately contact the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service” and that it is continuing to work closely with the police and the Ministry of Homeland Security “to determine the circumstances surrounding this discrepancy and to implement measures to prevent recurrence”.