A 23-year-old woman is fighting for her life, and 184 people have been charged with drug offences, following the Field Day festival held at Sydney‘s Domain on New Year’s Day.
Per reports in Fairfax, the 23-year-old was admitted after a suspected drug overdose; a representative of St Vincent’s Hospital said that she was seen on a “very busy night” and remains in critical condition this morning.
In total, five people were hospitalised after the event, with 212 receiving medical treatment by paramedics at the festival.
The Redfern Region Enforcement Squad conducted “overt and covert” operations at the festival, with the aid of drug-sniffing dogs. NSW Police have said that 184 people were charged, eight of these with offences relating to drug supply.
Amongst these were a 26-year-old woman, caught with 100 ecstasy capsules, and a 19-year-old man, with 81. Both have been charged with supply offences an granted conditional bail to appear at Downing Centre Local Court later this month.
Chief Inspector Stuart Bell, of the Redfern Region Enforcement Squad, said in a statement:
“While most revellers were well-behaved, 184 drug related arrests shows that there are still some who think they can get away with possessing and supplying drugs. We will continue to target drugs, alcohol-related crime, and anti-social behaviour, particularly at music festivals. Police will continue to run these operations and work with the festival organisers to ensure music-lovers can attend festivals and enjoy themselves in a safe, drug-free environment. We make no apologies for finding people who supply and possess drugs, and putting them before the courts.”
UPDATE: The 23-year-old woman has been released from St Vincent’s Hospital today after her condition improved.
