"Peter’s unwavering commitment to the health and dignity of people who use drugs was driven by his own experiences"

A charity has paid tribute to “fearless and compassionate” drugs campaigner Peter Krykant after he passed away suddenly.

The former heroin addict became a public figure after he set up an unofficial drug consumption facility in a van which he took around Glasgow.

Krykant often talked about his own battles with addiction, admitting he started taking drugs when he was just 11 and speaking out about a relapse in 2021.

His pioneering work proceeded the establishment of The Thistle, the UK's first and only drug consumption room opened in the East End of Glasgow in an effort to reduce drug deaths.

Police confirmed the 48-year-old's death was being treated as unexplained and a post-mortem examination will be carried out in due course.

The Scottish Drugs Forum (SDF) paid tribute, with a statement reading: “It is with deep sadness that we at SDF acknowledge the passing of Peter Krykant, a fearless and compassionate campaigner whose work has helped change the landscape of drugs policy in Scotland and beyond. Peter’s unwavering commitment to the health and dignity of people who use drugs was driven by his own experiences. 

“He will be remembered most prominently for taking direct action to highlight the urgent need for safer drug consumption facilities – courageously operating an unsanctioned mobile drug consumption van in Glasgow. In doing so, he challenged outdated laws and helped to raise the profile of the life-saving potential of these services. 

“We’ve no doubt his loss is deeply felt. Our thoughts are with his family, friends, and all those whose lives he touched.”