09-08-2025
Fentanyl laced faux Rx pills flood Hawaiʻi Island, police warn
HAWAII ISLAND, Hawaii (KHON2) — Hawaiʻi Police Department reported four fentanyl-related arrests on Hawaiʻi Island in July. Officers recovered 0.75 gram of illicit fentanyl and 500 fentanyl pills during that time, according to police.
That amount of fentanyl, which was less than a paperclip's weight, is enough to kill 375 people. This statistic is based on Drug Enforcement Agency data. As little as two milligrams of illicit fentanyl, about a few grains of salt, can be a deadly dose.
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'Fentanyl is a dangerous synthetic opioid that continues to threaten the lives of our community members,' said Acting Chief Reed Mahuna. 'We will continue to pursue those who sell and distribute these deadly drugs on Hawaiʻi Island.'
The department said that criminal drug networks are mixing fentanyl into counterfeit pills that look like legal prescription drugs. Many people who take these pills may not know they contain fentanyl.
Officers have been working to limit the supply and distribution of illegal narcotics. The department's Vice Section continues to investigate and respond to tips from the with information about drug-related activity can call HPD's anonymous tip lines. For Kaʻū, Kona, South Kohala and North Kohala, call (808) 329-0423.
For Puna, South Hilo and Hāmākua, call (808) 934-8423. Callers do not have to give their name, address or phone number. All information stays confidential.
To learn more about fentanyl safety, how to spot signs of fentanyl poisoning and what to do in case of an emergency, visit HPD's .
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Even a small tip can help. Information is cross-checked with other cases to identify possible links. If a tip connects with other reports, officers may be able to act.
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