A 76-year-old man has been arrested in connection with a suspected poisoning incident at a summer camp in Leicestershire. Eight children were assessed at a makeshift triage centre at Plungar village hall before being transferred to hospital for further checks. All have since been discharged.

The suspect, who was arrested at the camp, is currently in custody. He is being held on suspicion of administering poison or a noxious substance with intent to cause harm or distress.

The East Midlands Special Operations Unit’s Major Incident Team is leading the investigation, with support from local neighbourhood officers in Stathern, Melton and Rutland. Leicestershire Police have referred themselves to the Independent Office for Police Conduct over concerns regarding the timing and handling of the initial response. An independent inquiry has now been launched.

Detective Inspector Neil Holden said:

“We understand the concern this incident will have caused to parents, guardians and the surrounding community. We are in contact with the parents and guardians of all children concerned. 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. We also remain at the scene to carry out enquiries. This is a complex and sensitive investigation and we will continue to provide updates to both parents and guardians and the public as and when we can.”

Officers remain on-site, both gathering evidence and offering reassurance to the local community. Members of the public have been urged to come forward with any information that may assist the investigation.

Authorities have emphasised that the safeguarding of the children is their top priority and that all appropriate steps are being taken to fully investigate the matter under independent oversight.