Belfast Police Decontamination: Nine Officers Hospitalized
Police Investigate Substance Exposure at Belfast Property
Table of Contents
Nine police officers were decontaminated after exposure to substances at a property on Damascus Street in south Belfast. An examination is underway.
Incident Overview
Nine police officers were taken to hospital for decontamination following an incident at a property on Damascus street in south belfast earlier this week, according to a senior officer’s confirmation to the Policing Board on October 26, 2023. Assistant Chief Constable Davy Beck stated that an investigation is currently in progress regarding substances discovered within the house.
Police initially responded to the property on Tuesday evening. The Northern Ireland Ambulance Service (NIAS) dispatched four emergency crews after receiving multiple 999 calls.
Decontamination and Officer Status
All officers who were potentially impacted by the substances underwent triumphant decontamination procedures. They were subsequently placed under observation for several hours and were all released by midnight, according to police reports.
Potential Public Health Concerns
Authorities are addressing concerns regarding potential exposure to individuals residing in the vicinity of the property. Assistant Chief Constable Beck explained that the focus is on those in close proximity to the house and the individuals involved,with a particular emphasis on the possible transmission of substances that may have been present in the atmosphere within the property.
Investigation details
“We will take forward an investigation into some substances that were located in the house.”
The nature of the substances found in the house has not yet been publicly disclosed as the investigation is ongoing. Police have not released details regarding the type of substances or the potential risks they pose.