Toxic pigs destroyed in Ivory Coast

Over 450 pigs have been culled and incinerated in Ivory Coast after they grazed close to contaminated toxic waste, according to reports.

The city of Abidjan was subjected to the illegal dumping of toxic oil slops and the waste has been blamed for the deaths of ten people.

Thousands of others have fallen sick as a result of the toxins and the Ivorian government is attempting to prevent the spread of illness through cutting off the possible food chain supply of any toxins.

Louise Achi, from the ministry of livestock production, told the BBC: "In total 455 pigs showed signs of toxic poisoning and were slaughtered by the authorities."

She added the next task was to catch and incinerate any fish that had occupied the coastline close to Abidjan.

The African state has begun an investigation into the toxic spill, which was shipped by a Dutch firm and has now been taken to France for treatment.

All Ivorians have been advised to remain vigilant and to only eat meat that comes from authorised slaughterhouses.