Suspicious activity needs reported to FBI

Fertilizer and crop protection retailers around the country are being reminded to contact their local FBI office when suspicious actions occur related to the attempted purchase of nitrogen fertilizer and other ingredients that could possibly be used for illegal purposes.

Earlier this year an unidentified individual contacted an Illinois Fertilizer & Chemical Association member retailer in Southern Illinois seeking to purchase the grain bin fumigant phostoxin.

IFCA noted that when asked, the caller would not provide his name prompting the company to contact IFCA. Due to the suspicious nature of the call, IFCA contacted the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). To date, the FBI has been unable to identify the caller seeking to purchase this product.

Several days ago, a milling plant in Eastern Illinois reported the theft of five packages of phostoxin. The FBI is seeking industry and individual assistance to help solve this theft.

The Agricultural Retailers Association and the FBI have spread the message that ag retailers should report any suspicious activity concerning attempts to acquire granular nitrogen fertilizer or chemicals such as phostoxin.

Retailers need to know their local FBI office contact and should try to know their local Division WMD coordinator.

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