Arrests in 'slimming jab' death investigation

A syringe full of a clear substance with someone wearing blue gloves holding it up, against a blurred background.Image source, Reuters
Image caption,

The BBC understands a woman died after taking a slimming injection which is suspected of being unlicensed

  • Published

A woman in her 50s has died after taking a slimming injection, suspected of being unlicensed, the BBC understands.

The woman died on 10 August in the Sunderland area, Northumbria Police said.

Two women, who are believed to be from Sunderland, have been arrested in connection with the death.

One woman in her 40s has been arrested on suspicion of administering a poison with intent to endanger life and the other woman, also in her 40s, has been arrested for possession of unauthorised medication intending to be sold to another person.

The two have since been released on police bail pending further inquiries.

If confirmed, it is believed to be the first known death in the UK connected to an unlicensed slimming injection.

The force said the investigation was ongoing.

Follow BBC Sunderland on X, external, Facebook, external, Nextdoor and Instagram, external. Send your story ideas to northeastandcumbria@bbc.co.uk.