Panic erupted at a KwaZulu-Natal primary school this week after more than 50 pupils were hospitalised, having allegedly consumed out-of-date ice lollies purchased from a vendor on the school grounds.
The incident at Bambe Primary School saw classrooms descend into chaos as children began complaining of crippling stomach cramps shortly after their break. Teachers acted swiftly, with the affected pupils initially being taken to the local Ntabamhlophe Clinic for emergency assessment before being transferred to Estcourt Provincial Hospital for more comprehensive treatment.
Vendor in Custody As Over 50 Pupils Are Hospitalised After Eating Expired Ice Lollies
Local authorities moved quickly to apprehend the vendor, who is currently being held for questioning. The suspect stock, identified as SuperCool brand ice lollies, has been confiscated and sent to a laboratory for urgent analysis. The tests aim to confirm the initial suspicion that the products were expired and identify the exact pathogen responsible for the mass poisoning.
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A community leader confirmed the swift police response, stating,
“Authorities have since taken the vendor into custody for questioning. The ice lollies have also been sent for testing to confirm if they were, in fact, expired and the cause of the mass illness.”
Community Leader Steps In to Offer Support
As anxious parents gathered at the hospital, a local mayor stepped in to offer practical support during the tense wait for news. Inkosi Langalibalele Mayor Mduduzi Myeza ensured that no one was left hungry, arranging sustenance for the young patients, their worried families, and the school staff who had accompanied them.
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Confirming the act of kindness, it was reported that
“Inkosi Langalibalele Mayor Mduduzi Myeza provided food for the affected children, as well as their parents and teachers, while they awaited test results at the hospital.”
The community has been praised for its rallying response to the frightening situation, which has left many calling for stricter controls on food sold near schools.
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The post Over 50 Pupils Hospitalised After Eating Expired Ice Lollies appeared first on iHarare News.
