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Authorities in the Japanese city of Fukuyama have warned residents about a stray cat contaminated with chemicals. People should not touch the animal under any circumstances and should call the police immediately if they see it, the city government said on Tuesday.
The Büsi had apparently fallen into a vat of chromium VI in a metal galvanizing plant. The chemical is carcinogenic and can cause serious skin injuries. Workers handling the material, which is often used in coating and welding, must wear rubber gloves and masks for protection.
According to the factory, the accident was noticed when a worker came to work Monday morning and discovered paw prints from a cat walking away from the barrel. Employees then checked the security camera and found footage showing the kitten entering and leaving the factory the night before. The animal has been searched for ever since. So far without success.
“The incident has alarmed us”
The company that owns the factory said a tarpaulin covering a tank containing the chrome had fallen over. It is suspected that the cat climbed onto the foil and fell into the container containing the toxic chemical, which is kept at a temperature of 122 degrees Celsius.
A spokesperson for the factory operator assured that the company immediately informed the police, city authorities and residents after noticing the accident. “The incident has alerted us that we need to take measures to prevent small animals, such as cats, from sneaking in,” he told AFP.
Animal rights activists accuse the factory of failing to take adequate precautions to protect animals from the toxic chemicals. (jmh/AFP)
Source: Blick
I am Amelia James, a passionate journalist with a deep-rooted interest in current affairs. I have more than five years of experience in the media industry, working both as an author and editor for 24 Instant News. My main focus lies in international news, particularly regional conflicts and political issues around the world.
