Hoax – UK prepares mortuaries for imminent mass deaths
Analysis
In recent days, posts on social networks began spreading information that the UK was preparing for “imminent mass deaths” by hiring mobile mortuaries with capacity for hundreds of bodies. The viral content was used as a supposed alert that the British government already anticipates a large-scale tragedy.
The messages gained attention for their alarmist tone and for presenting data about public contracts signed with companies in the funeral sector. Read one of the viral posts:
Alert Something BIG is coming: UK prepares MORTUARIES for MASS DEATHS UK is preparing for mass deaths. The British Home Office quietly signed contracts for mobile mortuaries and refrigerated storage units with capacity for 700 bodies.
In an article for Steagen, published on Sunday, columnist Jim Ferguson points out that this fact barely made the headlines. In February, the institution established a plan to manage mass deaths, developing a project that will cost up to 7.5 million pounds, more than 10 million dollars over 4 years.
The first contract worth 488,691.44 pounds, about 660,000 dollars, was already awarded to Fus Marquis LTD. The project included three levels of rapid-deployment mortuary capacity: flexible tent, temporary tents capable of housing at least 100 bodies, ready in 24 hours; rigid tent; refrigerated mortuaries with capacity for 150 bodies, ready in 3 days; temporary facilities.
Fact-check
The case raised doubts and led many users to believe there was a real risk of an imminent collapse or disaster in the country. The fact-check focuses on three main points: 1) Were there purchases related to mortuaries in the UK? 2) Do these purchases indicate preparation for imminent mass deaths? 3) Is there any official forecast of a large-scale tragedy?
Were there any UK purchases related to mortuaries?
Yes. Public documents show that the UK Home Office signed contracts with companies specialized in providing temporary body storage structures. These contracts are part of a contingency plan and are scheduled for execution over up to four years. In other words, this is not an emergency contract for immediate use.
Did the UK buy mortuaries to prepare for imminent mass deaths?
No. The project was developed as a long-term preventive measure so the country is prepared for potential disasters, such as pandemics or natural catastrophes. Such contracts do not mean an imminent event is about to occur. As shown by a TechARP fact-check, the investment is part of common strategic government planning practices.
Is there a forecast of mass deaths in the near future?
No. At no time did the British government issue a statement warning of future tragedies. The messages circulating on social media distort technical information from a preventive emergency management plan. It is worth noting that many countries adopt similar protocols without it meaning imminent tragedies are expected.
Conclusion
Posts claiming that the UK is preparing for imminent mass deaths are false. What exists is a long-term contract for the provision of temporary structures, a common practice in disaster prevention policies. There is no forecast of tragedy, nor any indication that the British population is at immediate risk.
Fake news ❌
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