Reports of needles in Gold Coast strawberries

THE first Gold Coast cases of strawberry contamination have been reported almost two weeks after needles were found inside fruit.

The Gold Coast Bulletin understands at least two incidents of strawberry tampering have been reported to authori- ties in the past week. One case was reported after a needle was found inside a strawberry at a local school last week, while another was reported at Varsity Lakes yesterday.

It comes as New Zealand authorities launched an investigation after needles were found in strawberries imported from Western Australia.

A Queensland Health spokeswoman yesterday said the department would not comment on specific cases following questions about the Gold Coast reports.

Police said their investigations were ongoing into “what appears to be needles inserted in strawberries”.

A spokesman said the contamination affected three brands of strawberries including: “Berry Obsession”, “Berry Licious” and “Donnybrook”.

“We continue to assess instances of contamination and if they are considered to be deliberate, they are investigated,” the spokesman said.

Police in multiple states are investigating more than 100 reports of contaminated fruit since needles were found in strawberries.

Sharp objects have also been reportedly found in other fruit including bananas, an apple and a mango.

The state government has offered a $100,000 reward leading to the arrest of those involved in Queensland.