Police are urging pet owners to be on the lookout for symptoms of poisoning after an amount of the harmful chemical Sodium Flouroacetate (commonly known as 1080) was stolen from a pastoralist property near Alice Springs this month.

It is alleged unknown offender/s have unlawfully entered a locked shed and lockbox and stolen the 1080, which is listed as a Schedule 7 Poison (Dangerous Poison).

This means it is a high risk chemical that has restrictions on its use as its use may adversely affect the health of users, the environment and trade. Schedule 7 Poisons have a high potential to cause harm at low exposure and require special precautions during manufacture, handling and use.

The schedule 7 chemical is often used by pastoralists to manage stock losses by reducing the number of wild dogs in the area, and requires a license to purchase the controlled substance.

Chemical Coordinator from the Department of Primary Industries, Michael Delosa said it is an offence to obtain or have possession of this schedule of chemical without possessing an Authorisation.

“It is actually an offence against the Agricultural and Veterinary Chemicals (Control of use) Act,” he said.

“Stringent conditions are required around the use of this substance, including the need for the appropriate personal protective equipment to be worn when handling.”

Alice Springs Superintendent Pauline Vicary said Police hold concerns for those potentially exposed to the chemical.

“It is concerning that this chemical is out in the public domain. We urge people not to handle it as we believe it has toxic ramifications.”

Police are urging pet owners to secure their animals so they can’t access bait that may have been placed in a public space.

Anyone with any information is asked to contact Police on 131 444 or can report information anonymously to Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.