The refugee shelter for Ukrainians in the former Diaconessenhuis on Hoogeveenseweg in Meppel was evacuated tonight after a strong odor of manure was smelled. The stench was probably caused by slurry (liquid manure), which a farmer in the area spread over the land.
Because a possible gas leak was reported, the building was evacuated as a precaution and 130 people were waiting outside. The fire brigade is working on the last measurements in the building to definitively rule out a gas leak. When that is done, people are allowed back inside.
An interpreter is called in for the Ukrainian refugees to explain the situation again. According to a spokesperson for the Drenthe Security Region (VRD), the eviction went without any problems. The police, among others, were present to ensure that everything went smoothly.
The strong manure odor is harmless, but very annoying for people, emphasizes the VRD spokesperson.