RICHMOND, VA – Virginia State Police are warning residents to only take medications prescribed by a licensed pharmacy as part of a new awareness push dubbed Operation Free 4.0. The campaign, announced this week, focuses on preventing fentanyl poisonings linked to counterfeit pills designed to look like legitimate prescriptions.
According to the Virginia State Police, the ongoing initiative increases outreach across schools, colleges, and workplaces statewide. Officers and community safety teams will share resources on recognizing and reporting suspected fake medications, which may contain deadly doses of fentanyl.
Authorities say the counterfeit pills often mimic legitimate medications but are illegally manufactured and potentially lethal. “These pills can look authentic but may contain fentanyl—a powerful opioid that can be fatal in even tiny amounts,” police stated in their alert.
The department is urging the public to avoid buying pills from unverified sources, including social media and online sellers, and to report any suspicious drug activity.
Operation Free 4.0 builds on previous enforcement and education efforts across Virginia to combat the rise in synthetic opioid-related overdoses.
Residents are encouraged to share the message and follow official updates through the Virginia State Police social media channels.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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