Dangerous drugs stolen

Veterinary drugs, which could prove lethal if misused, have been stolen during a burglary in Hawera overnight.

Three premises were targeted on Beach Road; the dog pound, the SPCA and an Armourguard building. Some tools and other miscellaneous items were taken, but of most concern to Police is the theft of Pentobarb 300 or Sodium Pentobarbitone, the drug used to euthanize dogs.

A total of 250ml of the drug ,which is in liquid form, was taken from a secure cabinet and could prove lethal if injected. It is also highly dangerous if ingested.

Symptoms range from eye irritation and vomiting, through to internal bleeding and organ damage. Even after contact with skin or hair it is important to remove contaminated clothing and wash skin and hair immediately with water.

Police urgently want to locate the Pentobarb 300 before someone comes to harm. If anyone knows who is responsible for the theft or who currently has the drug they are asked to contact Police immediately.

The theft comes after a series of burglaries and attempted burglaries in Hawera over the last few days. This includes one dental clinic being targeted twice in a few days during which a computer stolen. There was also an attempted break-in at a local dental surgery.

Detective Guy Jackson said: "It is not clear if these incidents are linked to the Beach Road burglaries but the medical nature of their work makes us concerned that they are being targeted in the hope of finding drugs. If so it is a dangerous game that the thieves are playing."

Anyone with information relevant to this investigation is asked to contact Hawera Police on 06 278 0270. Alternatively information can be provided anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555111. In the event of poisoning, contact the National Poisons Centre on 0800 764 766 for advice.

Media enquiries should be referred to Communications Manager Kim Perks on 027 234 8256.