Austria Arrests Suspect for Putting Rat Poison in Baby Food, Seeking €76 Million Ransom
Austrian police arrested a 39-year-old man after rat poison was found in HiPP baby food jars across Central Europe, linked to a €2 million extortion demand. Authorities warn at least one contaminated jar may still be in circulation.
Austrian police arrested a 39-year-old man in connection with the discovery of rat poison in jars of baby food in the eastern state of Burgenland two weeks ago. The case prompted HiPP, a leading German baby food manufacturer, to recall all products. Five contaminated jars of potato and carrot puree were safely recovered in Austria, the Czech Republic, and Slovakia before consumption. Austrian media reported that HiPP did not notice the extortion email demanding €2 million until after the deadline had expired. The company chairman revealed the email was sent on March 27 and gave the company six days to pay. Burgenland police stated they cannot disclose further details about the suspect or arrest circumstances due to the ongoing investigation. Authorities believe at least one more poisoned jar remains in circulation and have issued guidance on identifying tampered jars by checking the cap, safety seal, product smell, and bottom label. Austrian health and food safety authorities have warned parents whose infants consumed the brand to consult a doctor immediately if their children show severe weakness, pallor, or bleeding.
