Yahoo News Manchester police declare major incident after 'highly toxic' chemical taken from stolen van
A major incident has been declared by Manchester police after a "highly toxic" chemical was taken from a stolen van.
Capsules of Talunex, which is commonly used to control vermin, were taken from an abandoned Ford Transit van.
The vehicle, with registration number ND59 VBE. was found in Leconfield Frive, Blackley at around 11.45am on Wednesday after it was reported stolen in Darwen, Lancashire on the morning of June 22.
Superintendent Rebecca Boyce said Greater Manchester Police declared a major incident because Talunex, if handled or stored incorrectly, poses "a very real risk to public health".
“Additionally, our investigation and any recovery of Talunex requires multi-agency specialists," said Superintendent Boyce.
“Our priority is locating and safely recovering the Talunex. I would like to use this opportunity to appeal directly to the person/people who removed it from the van to contact the police, or Crimestoppers anonymously."
The Superintendent warned that Talunex should not be touched, sniffed, eaten or come into contact with water.
She added: “If this has happened or happens, please seek medical assistance immediately.
#UPDATE | The Talunex was last known to be stored in a box like this pic.twitter.com/JnoOErmgaP
— Greater Manchester Police (@gmpolice)
"Under no circumstances should Talunex be disposed of in general waste or flushed down a toilet or plughole.”
Talunex is highly toxic if swallowed and emits a very toxic gas upon contact with water and acids, said police.
The capsules are light grey, garden pea-sized spheres with a seam around the centre and were stored in a grey aluminium box.
The van also contained petrol, fertiliser and pesticides.
Dr Matt Pegorie, from Public Health England, added: “We urge members of the public who think they have come into contact with the capsules and are experiencing ill effects to seek urgent medical attention.
“Possible symptoms include nausea, vomiting, chest pain, stomach pain and difficulty in breathing.”
Anyone with information should contact police on 999 quoting log 943 of 01/07/20, or independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
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