November 2, 2001	Friday	Shaba’an 15, 1422

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GUJRAT, Nov 1: Local GPO authorities claim to have received two envelopes containing suspected anthrax powder, it is learnt.

Sources said the letters having no stamps were received by deputy senior postmaster (delivery branch) Abdul Hayee Siddique and junior accountant Khalid Raza.

Upon opening the letters, the two officials found in them white powder. The matter was immediately brought into the notice of senior postmaster Hanif Tahir.

He reported it to the Civil Lines police who registered a case against unknown persons. The SHO however refused to seize the powder.

Mr Hayee told Dawn the powder had unbearable stink. “I am still feeling sick. The condition of Khalid is also not different,” he said.

To a question, Mr Hayee said he was yet to consult a doctor.

The senior postmaster said, “we have informed the Postmaster General, Lahore, about the matter.”

Meanwhile, it is learnt that Sialkot GPO authorities have also received similar letters. However, the suspected powder is still in the custody of Gujrat GPO authorities.

The incident has created panic among the postal staff who have demanded that the government should send the suspected powder for laboratory examination.