Daijiworld Media Network – Washington

Washington, Nov 7: Several individuals fell ill at the Joint Base Andrews in Maryland after being exposed to a suspicious white powder from a package delivered to the Air National Guard Readiness Center, US officials said.

According to CNN, the incident occurred after an individual opened the package, prompting an evacuation of the building. A statement from Joint Base Andrews said first responders confirmed there were “no immediate threats,” though investigations are ongoing.

“As a precaution, the building and adjoining areas were evacuated, and a security cordon was established,” the statement said. The base has since handed over the scene to the Office of Special Investigations.

Several affected individuals were taken to the Malcolm Grow Medical Centre on the base. HAZMAT teams later declared the area safe, but sealed off rooms remain under investigation.

Authorities have not revealed the number of affected personnel or the nature of their illness. Investigators are also probing the substance and examining if any political motive was involved.

Joint Base Andrews is a key military installation frequently used by the US President, vice president, and other senior officials. Former President Donald Trump had flown out of the base to Miami a day before the incident, though officials clarified there is no indication of any connection.