Chemical security

Chem attack? 44 hospitalized after package with powder opened at Norwegian post office

A postal sorting office in southern Norway was evacuated after dozens felt sick after a suspicious package containing “powder” was opened. More than 40 people sought medical aid as a bomb squad investigated the site in protective hazmat suits.

Norwegian police, two fire trucks, and a bomb and chemical squad were dispatched Thursday to the municipality of Stokke in southern Norway alerted by the local postal service workers. Four of the workers initially reported eye pain after opening a package with unidentified powder, Tønsbergs Blad reported. 

Those who were in a direct contact with the substance, along with 10 people present in the room at the time of the package being opened and a further 28 people in other units of the building, were sent for treatment and check-ups at the Vestfold Hospital, VG newspaper said.

The building was cordoned off by police and chemical experts wearing protecting suits and gas masks. No one was allowed to approach the area within 100 meters.