The RCMP is warning the public about the possible circulation of a very lethal substance, called Carfentanil.

Carfentanil is a derivative of fentanyl, but can be 100 times more powerful and 10,000 times more potent than morphine. Exposure to a very small amount of this drug could be fatal through ingestion, inhalation, or absorption through the skin. It is regulated under the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act.

A substance was seized by investigators back in October that was then sent to Health Canada for testing, who in turn notified the Estevan RCMP that it contained Carfentanil.

As a result, 52 year old Marion Ellson is charged in connection with the seizure for Possession for the Purpose of Trafficking. She remains in custody until her court appearance on Monday.

The RCMP are cautioning the public regarding the dangers of consuming illicit drugs from unregulated sources. In their release, they said that street drugs are often represented as one thing, but can unknowingly contain other substances such as Carfentanil.

They say that the drug may still be circulating in southern Saskatchewan, and contact should avoided and police notified.