White powder sent to Belgian Government revealed to be poisonous

White powder sent to Belgian Government revealed to be poisonous
Police on motorbikes pictured in the Wetstraat - Rue de la Loi street in Brussels, where a meeting is taking place to discuss a possible coalition for the Federal Government, on Wednesday 18 December 2024 in Brussels. Credit: Belga / Hatim Kaghat

The white powder sent to the Belgian Government in three separate letters in November contained a toxic substance, the Brussels Public Prosecutor's Office revealed on Wednesday evening.

On 20 November 2024, a letter with white powder was found at the Interior Ministry and the State Security headquarters. Two days later, on 22 November, a similar envelope was found in the Prime Minister's office.

Initial results of the powder analysis revealed it is strychnine. This is a toxic and poisonous substance typically used for pest control of small rodents. It can cause irritation to the skin and is fatal if swallowed.

During the incident of the letter sent to the PM's office, one staff member who was in contact with the powder suffered hand injuries for which they received medical treatment, the Prosecutor's Office explained.

No suspects have been arrested and the investigation is still ongoing.

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