Flour Triggers Anthrax Alert at Brussels Mosque

Envelopes containing white powder were found at Brussels' Grand Mosque Thursday, but emergency crews who rushed to the scene said the substance was just flour, fire brigade spokeswoman Malika Abbad told NBC News.

Officials initially said at least 11 people came into contact with the powder and would be taken for hospital for blood tests. Abbad later said the white substance was "obviously flour," adding: "There is no risk to anyone."

The fire brigade's "anthrax alert" response involved at least four specialist ambulances as well as crews wearing protective suits. 

Belgian authorities on Thursday have launched a raid in southern Belgium linked to the Paris attacks but did not detain any suspects. Authorities also lowered their threat alert to the second-highest level in Brussels, calling a threat "possible and likely." Brussels has been on lockdown after officials warned terrorists may be planning a Paris-style attack.  

Copyright AP - Associated Press
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