Police warn of ibogaine dangers after sudden death in Cambridge, charges laid
Posted Aug 5, 2026 03:42:05 PM.
Last Updated Aug 5, 2026 03:58:53 PM.
The Waterloo Regional Police Service (WRPS) is warning the public about the dangers of ibogaine use after a sudden death in Cambridge involving the psychoactive extract.
On July 4, police launched an investigation into the sudden death of a man from Waterloo Region and determined the deceased had arranged to take part in a private healing experience where he consumed ibogaine.
Ibogaine is derived from an African rainforest shrub and is not authorized for recreational or medicinal use in Canada.
On July 30, police seized suspected ibogaine and several other powders, liquids and capsules from a home in Mississauga.
The evidence was sent to Health Canada for analysis and investigators ultimately arrested a 57-year-old Mississauga man, identified as Luis Da Silva.
Da Silva has been charged with criminal negligence causing death and selling a prescription drug recklessly. Police are concerned there may be additional victims.
“The Waterloo Regional Police Service is urging the public to be aware of the dangers associated with ibogaine use, which can cause side effects such as nausea and vomiting and may lead to serious injury or death,” read a WRPS release.
A 2017 notice from Health Canada said the agency had received reports of serious and fatal adverse reactions associated with the use of ibogaine and it is not an approved medical treatment.
Anyone with further information on the police investigation can contact WRPS at 519-570-9777, ext. 4496.
