Cockroach Gel Stolen

POTENTIALLY toxic gel was stolen during a break-in at Chadderton Town Hall. 

It can be toxic to humans if congested or swallowed and could cause a major skin irritation, so I want people – and the thieves themselves – to be very careful when handling this gel. 

It happened at the Environmental Health Agency offices the town hall in Oldham between 9am on 9 January 2012 and 10 January 2012 at 7.50am.

The thieves smashed their way through the window and, once inside, stole a locked metal container that contained 13 dispensers of Du Pont Advion Cockroach Gel, each with 30g of gel inside. 

The gel is used to tackle cockroaches and if swallowed or congested could be toxic to humans. It may also cause major skin irritation. 

Police are now appealing to anyone with information about the burglary to come forward and are also issuing a warning to anyone who comes into contact with the gel. 

Police Constable Craig Bowring said: "The gel these thieves have stolen can only be used for one legitimate purpose which is to tackle a cockroach problem, so for what reason they took it I do not know. 

"However, it can be toxic to humans if congested or swallowed and could cause a major skin irritation, so I want people – and the thieves themselves – to be very careful when handling this gel. 

"If you are offered it from anyone other than a licensed seller, please do not accept it and call police immediately. And if anyone should find it, please do not attempt to open the dispensers but return them to your nearest police station or health centre. 

"I would also urge anyone who has information that will help us trace these thieves to call us." 

Anyone with information should call police on 0161 856 4666 or the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111