Eight hospitalized and hundreds evacuated in mysterious incident at Swedish security services HQ
Initial reports from the BBC suggested a possible gas leak. However, upon reaching the site, the sensors did not show any deviations from the norm inside or outside of the building.
3:44 AM EST, February 24, 2024
Helicopter and security perimeter
Earlier reports from local media suggest that sensors on the building's roof detected phosgene, but officials have not yet confirmed this. Phosgene, a chemical used in the production of plastics and pesticides, accounts for the vast majority of deaths during World War I.
A nearby highway exit was closed off by authorities, who also established a security perimeter around the site. Images of the scene show police officers donning gas masks and a helicopter surveying the area. Nearby residents were advised to keep their windows closed.
"Six people were sent to the hospital for examination due to reported respiratory issues. Additionally, two first-responding police officers have undergone examinations," the police reported.
Sweden anticipates a decision from Hungary
Residents in the contained area were prohibited from returning home until the operation finished around 19:30 ET on Friday. The BBC mentioned the incident's timing, which overlapped with the visit by Sweden's Prime Minister, Ulf Kristersson, to Hungary - the only NATO country yet to approve Stockholm's alliance membership.
The Hungarian parliament is expected to approve Sweden's membership on Monday.
