Investigation Launched After Children Fall Ill at Leicestershire Summer Camp
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Police have launched a major investigation after several children fell unwell at a summer camp in Stathern, prompting a large emergency response and the arrest of a 76-year-old man.
Leicestershire Police confirmed they were alerted on Sunday, 27 July, by a third party reporting that children were feeling unwell at a camp in Canal Lane. Officers attended alongside East Midlands Ambulance Service (EMAS) to ensure the children’s safety.
A triage centre was quickly established at Plungar Village Hall, where all the children at the camp were assessed. Eight children were taken to hospital as a precaution and have since been discharged.
Police said parents and guardians of the affected children have been contacted and provided with updates.
A 76-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of administering poison or a noxious substance with intent to injure, aggrieve, or annoy. He remains in custody while enquiries continue.
The East Midlands Special Operations Unit’s Major Incident Team (MIT) is now leading the investigation to ensure a full and thorough inquiry.
Detective Inspector Neil Holden, the senior investigating officer, said:
“We understand the concern this incident will have caused to parents, guardians and the surrounding community.
Please be reassured that we have several dedicated resources deployed and are working with partner agencies, including children’s services, to ensure full safeguarding is provided to the children involved.
This is a complex and sensitive investigation, and we will continue to provide updates as and when we can.”
Uniformed officers remain in the Stathern area today conducting enquiries and offering reassurance to the local community.
A Major Incident Public Portal (MIPP) has been created for anyone with information: https:///mipp.police.uk/operation/33EM25I63-PO1.
Due to the nature of the initial police response, Leicestershire Police has referred itself to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC).
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