A member of Belgian Prime Minister Alexander De Croo’s office was hospitalized in late November last year after coming into contact with a toxic powder at his office.
The incident occurred on Nov. 22, when the staff member discovered a white powder in a letter received at the prime minister’s headquarters in Brussels.
The letter contained strychnine, a toxic substance, the Brussels prosecutor’s office announced on Wednesday evening following an analysis of the substance, Le Soir reported. Strychnine is commonly used for controlling small rodents. It can be deadly if ingested and may cause skin irritation upon contact.
“She was opening the letter and injured subsequently. She was then taken to hospital and no one else was hurt,” Barend Leyts, De Croo’s spokesperson, explained Thursday.
“Obviously the incident has shocked the prime minister and his staff. Our colleague is luckily doing well now and at the time all procedures were strictly followed to prevent further damage,” he added.
Similar letters were also found at the interior minister’s office on Nov. 20 and on Dec. 9, but no injuries were reported. It is not yet clear whether there is a connection between the incidents.
POLITICO contacted the Brussels prosecutor’s office for comment. On Wednesday, it told Le Soir that the investigation is still ongoing and no suspect has been arrested at this stage.
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