Edenderry Garda station remains closed after gardaí got ‘very ill’ handling seized vapes
Summary
The Edenderry Garda station in Co Offaly remains closed for specialist deep cleaning after two Gardaí became seriously unwell while processing seized vapes. The officers were hospitalized after handling items from a commercial premises, potentially exposed to toxic fumes or skin-absorbable liquids from poorly constructed or leaking vapes containing cannabis or high nicotine levels.
Experts suggest the illness could be caused by a combination of leaking substances and lithium batteries, especially in confined spaces. While the officers have been discharged from the hospital and are expected to recover, An Garda Síochána is providing welfare support to them and their families.
In the broader context, illegal cannabis vapes are frequently smuggled into Ireland and often fail to meet safety standards. This incident follows a recent €2 million seizure of cannabis products by the Drugs and Organised Crime Bureau. Local policing is currently being managed from Tullamore Garda station.
(Source:The Irish Times)