Eight police hurt in drugs raid

Eight police officers were hospitalised yesterday after being exposed to an unknown liquid during a drugs raid.

West Midlands Police said the officers experienced sickness and breathing difficulties after assisting in the seizure of a "large quantity" of Class A drugs at a house in Bordesley Green, Birmingham, just after midnight yesterday.

Three suspects aged 21, 27 and 34 were also taken ill. All 11 were later released from hospital.

Police are investigating what the substance was but early indications suggest it may have been petrol mixed with heroin.

Fire crews who inspected the scene yesterday said that there was no further risk.