Arrest after tests confirm hospitalised Leeds man took poisonous ‘herbal’ tablets bought online

The man was admitted to Leeds General Infirmary after falling ill 12 days ago. Tests results given yesterday showed high levels of arsenic in his system and police were alerted.

Enquiries established that the man had been taking three different types of tablets advertised as herbal supplements for impotence.

These are described as black, red and silver tablets. Tests have shown that the black tablets purchased from BMG Herbal Products in Birmingham contained high levels of arsenic, while the red and silver tablets did not contain the substance.

A 51-year-old man from the West Midlands has been arrested on suspicion of selling non medicinal poison. He has been interviewed and released on bail.

Detective Sergeant Steve King, of Leeds District CID, said: “We would urge anyone who has purchased black tablets from BMG Herbal Products, which are being sold as herbal supplements for impotence, to stop taking them, make contact with West Yorkshire Police or West Midlands Police via 101. They are also urged to seek immediate medical advice if they are experiencing any adverse symptoms.”

It is expected that the man admitted to LGI will make a full recovery.