KEY POINTS:
Thieves who took two 50kg drums of chlorine oxidiser from a chemical processing plant in Hamilton could endanger the public if they mishandled the chemicals, police say.
Detective Sergeant Rob Issac of Hamilton CIB said police were concerned that the drums -- taken from Frankton -- may split or the chemicals be used in the wrong way.
They are appealing for help from the public to avert a potentially dangerous situation.
"It's a class five oxidising solid that has the potential to give off poisonous chlorine gas and we're very concerned for the safety those who took the drums, the people who may live with them and for the public in general," Mr Issac said.
The chemicals were in a white powder form and contained in distinctive fibreboard drums.
ESR forensic programmes manager Keith Bedford said a gas could be created if the drums were spilt, mishandled or mixed with chemicals such as in household detergents or cleaners.
The chemicals could also cause serious harm if spilled into waterways as they were very toxic to aquatic organisms.
The original reports on Saturday's break-in indicated nothing had been taken but follow up inquiries revealed thieves had taken the two drums, Mr Issac said.
Anyone with information on the whereabouts of the chemicals or who had seen the distinctive drums was asked not to approach them but to contact police or Fire Service on 111.
- NZPA
