The Waterloo Regional Police Service has arrested a man from Mississauga as part of a sudden death investigation in Cambridge. The police first learned of the death of a man in Waterloo Region on July 4. “Through the investigation, it was determined that the deceased had arranged to participate in a private ibogaine healing experience,” a news release said. “During the ceremony, the deceased consumed ibogaine, a psychoactive alkaloid extract from the root bark of a Central West African rain forest shrub. Ibogaine is not authorized for use in Canada and is not an approved medical treatment recognized by Health Canada.” Health Canada has received reports of serious and fatal reactions related to ibogaine and said it has not authorized any clinical trials using the substance. However, some people believe it could aid in addictions treatment, particularly when it comes to severe opioid use disorder. On July 30, investigators searched a home in Mississauga and seized suspected ibogaine in addition to several other powders, liquids and capsules. Those items were sent to Health Canada for analysis and identification. A 57-year-old from Mississauga was charged with criminal negligence causing death and selling a prescription drug recklessly. Investigators believe there may be additional victims and urge anyone with information to call 519-570-9777, extension 4496.
