Eight policemen received treatment after complaining of illness following their involvement in the investigations into the discovery of 15 black barrels believed to contain solid sodium cyanide in Karak.

Health Minister Dzulkefly Ahmad said four of them are still warded at the Bentong Hospital for 48 hours for observation.

“They are reported to be in stable condition. 

"As well as four other members who received outpatient treatment at the Karak Health Clinic... all of them are in stable condition, and have passed the danger level,” he said.

Dzulkefly was met after launching the Kampungku Sihat programme in Kampung Padang Lalang today, which was also attended by Deputy Works Minister Mohd Anuar Mohd Tahir and Pahang Health director Dr Sha’ari Ngadiman.

He, however, did not elaborate on the symptoms experienced by the police officers, but said the first symptom of the chemical poisoning was vomiting.

Bernama yesterday reported the discovery of 15 black barrels of chemicals used in gold mines, at an oil palm plantation in Karak on Thursday.

The inspection carried out by the Pahang Environment Department found the chemical was in a solid state, and there was no presence of cyanide gas vapour in the area, although the chemical would onlyg emit gas if it reacts with water.

Pahang exco for tourism, environment, plantations and biotechnology Mohd Sharkar Shamsuddin said they are investigating the origin of the materials, including inspecting the gold mine near Kampung Cinta Manis, Bentong.

- Bernama