Key facts
- Eighty vials of fentanyl were stolen from Rome's Jewish Hospital pharmacy.
- The theft occurred without signs of forced entry.
- The stolen fentanyl is enough for approximately 20,000 doses.
- An emergency government meeting was convened in response to the theft.
- An investigation into theft and possession with intent to supply is underway.
Eighty vials of fentanyl, a potent synthetic opioid, have been stolen from the pharmacy of Rome's Jewish Hospital. The theft occurred without any signs of forced entry, raising concerns about internal access or sophisticated bypassing of security measures. The stolen quantity is substantial, estimated to be enough for approximately 20,000 doses of the drug. This incident has triggered an immediate response from the Italian government, with an emergency meeting convened to address the security breach and potential public health risks. An investigation has been launched by authorities, focusing on theft and possession with intent to supply. The implications of such a large quantity of a highly addictive and dangerous substance entering illicit channels are significant, prompting a swift and serious governmental reaction.