14 August 2023 , 13:16
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A warning has been issued to revellers after dangerous drugs were found at a festival in Cornwall.
Organisers erected a sign at Boardmasters urging people not to take 'Tesla tablets' - a form of the Class A drug ecstasy, also known as MDMA - after it was discovered on site. The alert was accompanied by a picture of the pill, which bears a Tesla logo and appears orange in colour.
It also advised anyone who had taken drugs and felt unwell to seek medical attention immediately. The sign says: "Tesla tablets have been found at the festival. These are dangerous and can make you very unwell. Please do not take them.
"Be responsible and look out for each other. Taken something and feel unwell? Go to medical immediately or speak to the nearest steward. They'll look after you and you won't get into trouble."
The alert was accompanied by a picture of the pill, which bears a Tesla logo and appears orange in colourA spokesperson for Boardmasters described the warning as "vital" for keeping people safe, reports Cornwall Live. They said: "Drug messaging is standard procedure across all major events. It is part of our on site drug testing function and is vital from a harm reduction standpoint."
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The warning comes two years after a "dodgy" batch of 'Blue Teslas' were reportedly connected to an incident at a club night in Tottenham, north-east London, which left one person dead and two more in hospital. The popular Bristol nightclub Motion also warned about the type of drug following a death in the city in 2021.
At the time, they put out a statement along with a picture of a Tesla-themed blue pill, said: "We are aware of some extra strength pills in Bristol. Please be careful wherever you go this weekend - please stay safe and look after each other."
The side effects of MDMA include euphoria, relaxation and reduced anxiety, a substantial increase in emotionality, increases in sociability, communication and self-confidence, and sometimes mild hallucinations. The dosage, setting and user of the drug does alter the effects of the drug.
When used in its traditional setting of parties and nightclubs it induces a feeling of high motor activity, a lack of awareness of backgrounds and a reduction in self-identity. However, there are also very negative effects too including teeth grinding, insomnia, extreme thirst, impulsiveness and an increased heart rate.
Additionally, the feeling of euphoria can lead to very reckless and bad decisions. Long-term use can also increase the risk of anxiety and depression, as well as a condition called serotonin syndrome which can be fatal.
On its website, Boardmasters outlines its drug policy. Before entering the festival and being searched, there are amnesty points where people are able to dispose of any prohibited items, including illegal drugs, with no questions asked.
At the search point, those found to be in possession of drugs will be refused entry and may be arrested. Anyone who manages to smuggle drugs onto the site and is suspected of dealing or supplying them will be kicked out and arrested. There are also police officers and sniffer dogs on patrol.
Attendees are encouraged to read through drugs advice - issued by Festival Safe - which can be found here.