Northern Ont. police say suspected morphine found in a chip bag on Halloween

Provincial police warn Mattawa-area parents to inspect Halloween candy after a bag of chips tested positive for suspected morphine.

The North Bay detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police is urging parents to carefully inspect their children’s Halloween treats following a report of a suspicious substance found in a chip bag.

A family in the Chenier Road area of Papineau-Cameron of Mattawa reported on Nov.1 that they discovered a chip bag that appeared to have been cut open and resealed.

“Officers conducted a preliminary test, which indicated the presence of suspected morphine,” the OPP said in a news release.

Take precautions

“At this time, there are no additional reports of similar incidents, and the investigation remains ongoing. The OPP is working to determine the origin of the item and whether any further public safety concerns exist.”

As a precaution, police are urging parents and guardians to inspect all Halloween treats for signs of tampering.

Check for tears, holes or irregularities in candy wrappers, signs of re-sealing or altered packaging and any items that appear suspicious, even if unopened.

“If you discover any items that appear to be tampered with or suspicious, do not consume them,” police said.

Contact the OPP immediately at 1-888-310-1122. Anonymous tips can also be submitted through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or online.