Two men wanted after theft of hospital gas

Police are searching for two men in a black Audi after six canisters of nitrous oxide gas were stolen from a hospital in Canterbury.

Officers are warning the public to call them immediately if they come across the canisters, which were stolen from the Chaucer Hospital in Nackington Road last week.

The nitrous oxide, which is more commonly known as laughing gas, was taken between 11.10pm and 11.12pm last Wednesday.

Two men in a black Audi A3 were seen in the area at the time of the burglary.

DI Marcus Whitnell said: “All gas can be dangerous, particularly in a compressed state.

“People using nitrous oxide should be aware that it deprives the body of oxygen. It can be fatal when taken in excess. This risk is likely to be greater if the gas is consumed in an enclosed space or if a substantial amount is rapidly used.”

Police are appealing for witnesses to the incident to contact them.

Mr Whitnell added: “Two men in a black Audi A3 were seen in the area at the time of the burglary.

“They were both described as white, over 6ft and of a slim or thin build.

“One was wearing a grey hoodie, blue jacket, blue skinny jeans and black trainers.

“The other was wearing a grey coat with a light-coloured top underneath, blue jeans and black and white Nike trainers. Both men were wearing grey gloves.”

Anyone with information is asked to call police on 01843 222289, quoting reference ZY/33695/16.