Estonian Authorities Warn of Rising Homemade Bomb Incidents Involving Cleaning Product “Torusiil”
TALLINN,Estonia – Estonian bomb disposal experts have seen a surge in incidents involving homemade explosives crafted from the readily available cleaning product “Torusiil,” raising alarm among safety officials adn prompting calls for increased parental awareness. This year alone, the estonian rescue Service has responded to 17 calls regarding these devices, with children among those injured in explosions.
“Building such a device is not challenging, and many experimenters are still injured. Children in Estonia have also become victims of such explosions,” stated Kalvars Tammine, head of the mine neutralization center of the Estonian Rescue Service.
The danger lies in the chemical reaction created when components of “Torusiil” are combined, resulting in an explosion that scatters perilous fragments and releases corrosive sodium hydroxide. According to Tammine, the consequences can be severe, “including loss of vision or amputation,” from both the shrapnel and chemical burns to skin, eyes, and mucous membranes.
The accessibility of the product is a key concern. evelina Laula, head of “Rimi” Estonia, confirmed that “Torusiil” is currently sold without age restrictions. While not directly linked to a specific incident,Laula acknowledged police have requested monitoring of purchases,notably when young people buy multiple bottles. “We have informed our store staff about these concerns and asked them to report any suspicious customer behavior,” she said, adding that no concrete suspicious cases have yet been reported by stores.
Currently, there are no age restrictions on the sale of household chemicals in Estonia. Implementing such restrictions would require age verification for the entire product category, creating a logistical challenge for retailers.
Authorities are urging parents to educate their children about the dangers of experimenting with household chemicals and to ensure these products are stored securely out of reach. “We will continue to work with local law enforcement and keep stores informed of the situation,” Laula stated, reiterating the importance of parental vigilance.
“torusiil” and similar household chemicals are commonly used for cleaning, meaning children may have access nonetheless of in-store restrictions.Information regarding dangerous combinations of household chemicals can be found here: https://nra.lv/dzivesstils/maja-interjers/497020-kadus-tirisanas-lidzeklus-nedrikst-jaukt-kopa-bistamakas-kombinacijas.htm
