By Terna Chikpa, Jalingo
At least five people have been confirmed dead, while eight others were hospitalised after eating suspected poisoned meat in Takum LGA of Taraba State.
The Taraba State Police Command confirmed the incident on Wednesday in Jalingo.
In a press statement released by the Command’s PPRO, Victor Mshelizah, the victims from three different families consumed the meat on Tuesday during a Ramadan lecture, after which five of them died.
According to the statement, the remaining eight are currently receiving treatment at different hospitals in the area, while investigations have already commenced to ascertain the cause of the incident.
The police disclosed that preliminary investigations have indicated that the victims may have unknowingly eaten meat contaminated with a toxic substance believed to have been used for rodent control.
“The eight affected individuals are currently receiving treatment at various hospitals in the area, while the remains of the deceased have been evacuated for necessary procedures.
“A comprehensive investigation is now underway to unravel the circumstances behind the tragic event,” the statement disclosed.
The Command urged members of the public to remain vigilant and promptly report any suspicious food items, sudden illnesses, or related incidents to security agencies to avert further tragedy.
