Argentines mourn as toxic cocaine kills at least 23

Relatives prayed and waited for news on Saturday as Buenos Aires, the capital of Argentina, comes to terms with the deaths of at least 23 people linked to batches of contaminated cocaine.

Dozens remain in hospital, including some of whom who were on life-saving respiratory support, after consuming the seemingly toxic drug. Masses were held in the city on Saturday to commemorate those who had died.

Most of the victims died at home or on the street before receiving medical attention. The substance used has not yet been identified, but toxicologists suspect an opioid that is lethal in high doses.