Northern Territory Police have made an urgent call for information after quantities of fentanyl and ketamine were stolen during break-ins to medical clinics overnight.

The Wurli Wurlinjang Health Service and Katherine Veterinary Clinic — both in the town of Katherine, about three hours south of Darwin — were broken into at about 2.30am on Wednesday, according to police.

A number of items were stolen during the break-ins, including a quantity of the drugs fentanyl and ketamine.

“Three persons of interest were last seen heading across the Katherine Bridge, travelling north along the Stuart Highway at around 3:30am,” NT Police said in a statement. 

Police said fentanyl, a synthetic opioid far stronger than morphine and heroin, posed an “extreme danger” and warned the Katherine community to remain alert. 

“Fentanyl is designed to be absorbed into the body through various means, including transdermal transmission (through the skin),” the statement said. 

“If you suspect you have come into contact with these substances, dial triple-0 immediately and seek immediate medical attention.”

Anyone with information related to the incident is urged to contact police on 131 444.