A 19-YEAR-OLD man from Hawick has been arrested after nine people, including at least five children, were hospitalised after taking a mystery pink tablet.

Police in the Borders issued 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 on 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 remained in a stable condition.

All of the young people are from Hawick and a number remain in hospital under observation at this time.

Police today confirmed that enquiries are continuing. A 19-year-old man from Hawick has been arrested in connection with the investigation and is expected to appear at Jedburgh Sheriff Court on Monday (August 24).

Inspector John Reid of Police Scotland, J Division, said: “At this stage we are still seeking the help of the local community to ensure that the message about the dangers associated with anyone taking non-prescribed medication is getting circulated as widely as possible, and in particular the dangers associated with this pink coloured tablet which appears to be very potent, and has caused these young people to fall ill.

“I would again ask anyone who may have taken one of these tablets and who feels unwell, or indeed knows of anyone becoming unwell as a result of taking one, to seek medical assistance as soon as possible. I would also ask that anyone who can assist in the ongoing investigation to contact Police Scotland through our non emergency 101 number, or if they want to remain anonymous, through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”