UK police ‘identify’ Russian suspects in poisoning case

London, July 19

British police have identified “several suspects” in the attempt to murder former Russian double agent Sergei Skripal and his daughter by poisoning them with a rare nerve agent, media reports said on Thursday, citing the outcome of investigations in the high-profile case that has hit UK’s ties with Russia.

Skripal, 66, and his daughter Yulia, 33, were discovered slumped on a bench in the English town of Salisbury on March 4. They were treated for exposure to the Soviet-era military-grade nerve agent Novichok and discharged separately from hospital several weeks later and moved to secure locations. Police believe they came in contact with the substance via the door handle of Skripal’s house.

“They (investigators) are sure they (suspects) are Russian.” The Met Police, who are leading the investigation, have refused to comment. — PTI