One person has been detained on suspicion of attempted murder after four employees at Uppsala's Akademiska hospital are suspected of being poisoned. They fell ill suddenly in late October with similar symptoms and low potassium levels. Prosecutor Emma Häggström is leading the investigation, which began in November.
Four employees on the same ward at Uppsala's Akademiska children's hospital fell suddenly ill over a ten-day period starting October 27. They showed similar symptoms, including critically low potassium levels, and required intensive care. All have since been discharged and interviewed by police.
Police launched an investigation into attempted murder with suspicion of poisoning in early November. Reports suggest the theory involves someone spiking water bottles with high levels of caffeine powder, but prosecutor Emma Häggström has declined to comment. "The analysis of what the persons were poisoned with is not yet complete," she tells TT.
On Friday, one person was arrested and detained on reasonable suspicion, the lower level. "After investigative measures, I determined there is reasonable suspicion against one person," Häggström says. She adds that work will continue intensively over the weekend to decide on detention by Monday. The person has been taken to custody in Uppsala, and Häggström agrees with the hospital that there is no reason for staff to worry.
Staff on the ward were informed of the arrest on Friday. Akademiska hospital states they are continuing safety measures, including staff information, guards, and locked doors. Chief physician Henrik Olivero-Reinius says an internal communiqué was sent out Saturday, and staff will meet Monday to discuss the events. The detainee's lawyer, Stefan Wallin, refuses to comment.
The investigation continues, and Häggström notes that suspicion could theoretically change after questioning.
