A 72-year-old woman in Płock, Poland, discovered suspicious jars in her basement, prompting the evacuation of nearby residents on Monday, March 30.
Discovery in Płock Basement
On Monday, March 30, a 72-year-old resident of Płock reported finding suspicious substances in her basement to the police. Authorities confirmed the discovery at the home on Zielona Street.
The woman explained that the jars and their contents belonged to her husband, a chemist who died a few days prior.
Hundreds of Mysterious Jars
Police in Płock reported on Tuesday that labels on some of the jars indicated they may contain hazardous substances. The street where the building is located was temporarily closed to traffic, and emergency services remain on scene.
The 72-year-old woman stated her husband may have been storing the substances in the basement for around 20 years.
Counter-Terror Unit Involved
“There are several hundred jars found on site. A counter-terrorism unit with a specialized mobile chemical laboratory is working at the location,” said Police Sub-inspector Monika Jakubowska on Tuesday afternoon.
Part of the jars, those with labels indicating potentially dangerous, including explosive, substances, have been secured. Some jars are unlabeled.
Evacuation and Ongoing Investigation
The 72-year-old resident was evacuated, along with three neighbors. It is currently unknown when they will be able to return home.
Jakubowska stated that the examination of the basement and the remaining items could take several more hours, possibly until Wednesday.
Police Appeal
Płock police appealed to residents to follow the instructions of law enforcement officials. They urged caution and advised against touching or handling any suspicious substances.
“Unknown substances may be toxic or even deadly. Report any such findings immediately to the appropriate authorities,” stated Jakubowska in a press release.
