Police have declared a major incident in Greater Manchester over ‘very toxic’ chemicals which are thought to be circulating in the area.

Public Health England has also issued a warning after the hazardous rat poison was removed from a stolen Ford Transit van on Wednesday. Capsules of Talunex – used to control vermin – were found in a grey aluminium box in the van that was abandoned in Blackley, at about 11.45am.

Police said the chemical poses a ‘very real risk to public health’ and is highly toxic if swallowed or mishandled. It also emits a very toxic gas upon contact with water and acids and it should ‘under no circumstances’ be thrown down toilets or into general waste, added police.

PHE North West’s Dr Matt Pegorie urged anyone who may have come into contact with the poison to seek urgent medical attention.

He said: ‘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.’

The vehicle, with the registration number ND59 VBE, was reported stolen in Darwen, Lancashire, on the morning of June 22.

The capsules found inside were light grey, garden pea-sized spheres with a seam around the centre.

Superintendent Rebecca Boyce said: ‘Our rationale for declaring a major incident is that if handled or stored incorrectly, Talunex poses a very real risk to public health.

‘Additionally, our investigation and any recovery of Talunex requires multi-agency specialists. 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.

‘I must stress that Talunex should not be touched, sniffed, eaten or allowed to come into contact with water.

‘If this has happened or happens, please seek medical assistance immediately.

‘Under no circumstances should Talunex be disposed of in general waste or flushed down a toilet or plughole.’

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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