FIVE children are among nine people who have been taken to hospital after taking an unidentified pink tablet.

Police in the Borders are today (Friday) issuing a warning after a number of reports over the last week of young people experiencing significant adverse effects from consuming the drug. On Wednesday, five males, all under the age of 16, were taken to Borders General Hospital for severe sedation after apparently taking the unknown substance.

And today (Friday) a further four males, all aged 16 or under, from the Hawick area, were taken to the same hospital after allegedly consuming the tablet where they remain in a stable condition.

Enquiries are ongoing and members of the public are being asked to be aware that some of the tablets may still be in circulation in the Borders area and to bear in mind the health implications if consumed.

Inspector Calum Welsh, who is based at Melrose Police Station, said: “These recent and unfortunate incidents highlight the significant dangers of taking non-prescribed drugs.

“It is clear that the, as yet unidentified, pink tablets are extremely potent and should be avoided at all costs.

“We believe there are more tablets circulating, particularly in the Hawick area, and my message to the public is to stay vigilant.

“I would urge anyone who has taken the tablet and who feels unwell, or knows anyone who appears unwell after taking the substance to please seek medical treatment as soon as possible.” Anyone with information that can assist police with their ongoing investigation is asked to contact the non emergency number 101 or, alternatively the charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.