INTERNATIONAL: At least 23 people have died and dozens hospitalized in Argentina after consuming cocaine suspected of containing a poisonous substance, authorities in Buenos Aires province has announced on Wednesday, February 2.

Officials fear death toll from adulterated cocaine could increase, with 84 people currently in intensive care.

A number of arrests have been made and investigations are still ongoing.

The cocaine had been cut with a toxic substance, likely by a drug gang looking to cut costs amid a turf war with rival groups.

The local government of one affected area, Tres de Febrero, has said in a statement it was aware of people being made seriously ill due to "allegedly adulterated cocaine" and was working with emergency services and hospitals to prevent more deaths.