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 Police ID substance used in Kfar Darom
Authorities say settlers barricaded on synagogue roof poured caustic soda at troops; doctor says substance could cause serious burns
By Anat Barshkovsky
The substance poured on troops by pullout foes barricaded on the roof of the Kfar Darom synagogue last week has been identified as caustic soda, according to police officials.
During the violent clashes, youngsters poured various substances on police officers, including an unidentified substance that caused a burning sensation and led troops to remove their clothes and pour water on their bodies.
Speculation regarding the mystery substance circulated ever since the incident, with Knesset Member Michael Eitan (Likud) charging hospital officials dismissed the possibility troops were exposed to a toxin.
However, police lab tests found the substance used in Kfar Darom was caustic soda, characterized as a hazardous, toxic material, according to Rubi Gilad, who runs the center for hazardous materials in the Ministry of Environment.
"Caustic soda could cause serious eye and skin burns," he said. "The substance destroys skin and tissue, and could be poisonous if swallowed."
Substance easily found in supermarkets
Gilad noted that the substance could be found at home, as it is commonly used in several industries.
"Caustic soda is found in certain types of products used to unplug sinks and in oven cleaners," he said. "In fact, it can be easily found on supermarket shelves."
As it turns out, the police officers hurt by the substance acted properly, as the most effective treatment is to pour water on affected areas so the damage does not spread.
Meanwhile, the injured officers have been released from hospital. Earlier, top security officials said they would handle the attackers harshly and might not recruit them to the IDF.
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