Massive Fentanyl Theft at Rome Hospital; 20,000 Doses Stolen

A major theft of fentanyl has occurred at Rome's Israelitico Hospital, with 80 vials of the powerful painkiller, also one of the most widespread and dangerous synthetic drugs, disappearing. Investigations were immediately launched, an emergency meeting was held at Palazzo Chigi, and the Rome Prosecutor's Office has initiated a probe for theft and possession with intent to supply narcotic substances, entrusting the investigation to the Carabinieri's NAS (Health Protection Unit).

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sufficient to prepare up to about 20,000 doses intended for illicit consumption.

The Ministry of Health has also activated its inspectors and aims to further strengthen controls through a new circular. Sources from Palazzo Chigi indicated that the quantity of fentanyl is "sufficient to prepare up to about 20,000 doses intended for illicit consumption." They also conveyed concern "about the irresponsible behavior" of those responsible for ensuring its security.

The hospital stated it considers itself "the injured party in the matter and confirms its full availability to provide any useful element so that those responsible are identified." It specified that "as soon as the absence of the pharmaceutical material was ascertained, it proceeded to file a complaint against unknown persons with the competent authorities, simultaneously initiating internal investigations." Hospital employees raised the alarm about the theft.

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about the irresponsible behavior.

The vials were kept in a safe that showed no signs of forced entry. The safe was located in a room lacking the legally required video surveillance, and its key was accessible to multiple employees. One hypothesis being considered is a commissioned theft for resale on the black market. Given the increasing prevalence of this synthetic and potentially lethal drug, even in small doses, an emergency meeting was convened at Palazzo Chigi.

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considers itself "the injured party in the matter and confirms its full availability to provide any useful element so that those responsible are identified."