Thallium sulphate is a highly poisonous chemical compound formed from thallium, a heavy metal combined with sulphate ions. Scientists regard it as one of the most dangerous toxic substances because it disrupts vital biological processes in humans and animals, often with severe or fatal consequences.
The chemical recently became a subject of public discussion after allegations by Nasir El-Rufai, who claimed that Nuhu Ribadu imported the substance from Poland. Ribadu has denied the claim and challenged his accuser to present evidence to the Department of State Services
Chemically identified as Tl₂SO₄, thallium sulphate typically appears as:
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A white crystalline powder
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Odourless, colourless, and tasteless
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Easily soluble in water
Because it has no noticeable taste or smell, accidental ingestion can occur without immediate awareness. Symptoms may only become obvious after significant exposure.
Thallium itself belongs to the heavy metals group, like mercury and lead, but is generally considered even more acutely toxic.
In the early and mid-20th century, thallium sulphate was widely used as rat poison and pesticide.
Its effectiveness at very small doses made it attractive for pest control, but serious health risks eventually led many countries to ban or strictly regulate its use.
Although thallium sulphate is rarely used commercially today, related thallium compounds still play roles in:
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Electronics manufacturing
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Optical and infrared technology
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Semiconductor production
Because of toxicity concerns, handling and distribution are heavily controlled.
Exposure to thallium sulphate can cause severe health complications:
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Early symptoms: stomach pain, vomiting, diarrhoea
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Nervous system damage: numbness, weakness, nerve pain
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A distinctive sign: sudden hair loss days or weeks later
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Severe cases: organ failure, paralysis, coma, or death
Its invisible nature makes detection difficult, and initial symptoms can resemble common illnesses, complicating diagnosis.
Historically, thallium compounds have been used in deliberate poisonings. One widely cited example is Graham Young, a British serial poisoner whose crimes were uncovered after victims showed unexplained hair loss and neurological symptoms.
Reports from past geopolitical tensions also suggest that heavy metals like thallium attracted interest because they were difficult to detect
Due to its extreme toxicity and limited legitimate uses, any reported procurement or movement of thallium sulphate typically draws scrutiny from health regulators and security agencies.
Its association with poisoning cases and potential misuse explains why claims involving the chemical often provoke public anxiety and calls for transparency.
