"Illicit" fire extinguisher still under investigation

Saturday 29 June 2019

A fire extinguisher which could have been used in the creation of illicit substances is still under investigation.

It was seized from G4S at the Lowlands Industrial Estate earlier this week. The security company assesses fire extinguisher safety as part of its service to various businesses and properties.

The business park on Braye Road was evacuated on Tuesday evening when a staff member at the security firm handling the extinguisher was found to be feeling "giddy". Although an ambulance did not attend the scene, a member of the public was said to have been taken to hospital as a result. 

Businesses evacuated included Bodyworks Gym and Freelance Motors. Speculation led to some reports linking the evacuation as a "bomb scare" or issues with a fire hydrant. 

Guernsey Fire and Rescue service and several Guernsey Police officers were present throughout the incident. 

At the time Guernsey Police confirmed that the noxious gases thought to be being emitted from the device could constitute signs of criminal - and potentially explosive- activity. 

"One of these extinguishers had emitted a noxious gas and it was suspected that it may have been used in the manufacture of illicit substances," the statement issued by Guernsey Police said. "When used for such purposes, extinguishers become volatile and potentially explosive."

More recently, Guernsey Police confirmed officers are still looking into the incident. 

"Police can confirm one member of the public was taken to hospital for a precautionary check up [on Tuesday] following the incident at Braye Road. The individual did not require any further treatment. 

"While St John Ambulance were not required at the scene yesterday given the low risk of injury, Guernsey Police were supported by Fire & Rescue officers.  Investigations into the fire extinguisher, which may have been tampered with, are ongoing.  No arrests have been made," a spokesperson said.