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Contractor arrested on suspicion of stealing "a large number" of face masks

Thursday, 09 April 2020 1:26 PM [ Last Update: Thursday, 09 April 2020 1:26 PM ]

Met Police say the man was able to get access because he was a contractor. 9, April, 2020. EPA

A contractor for the London Ambulance Service was arrested at the Edmonton Ambulance Station on Wednesday morning on suspicion of stealing "a large number" of face masks.

The man, in his twenties, was allegedly trying to sell the face masks and other products online, according to the Metropolitan Police. He has been granted bail until a date in mid-April.

Detective Inspector Jason Colby of the Met Police said he was "saddened" anyone would "take advantage of the NHS for their financial gain".

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"These masks are a vital piece of PPE for emergency service personnel and are used to keep both themselves and patients safe," Det. Insp. Colby added.

"We will continue to crack down on anyone attempting to take advantage of our emergency services for personal gain, especially at such an unprecedented time."

A considerable number of items were recovered during searches carried out by police officers and have been returned to LAS.