Aceh poisoning baffles officials

BANDA ACEH, Aceh: Local officials are still baffled by the widespread case of food and cigarette poisoning which has spread through the province since late June.

Officials here revealed that at least five people have died due to the poisoning.

Another 636 have complained of headaches, respiration problems, vomiting or have collapsed into unconsciousness after consuming contaminated food.

However the source of the toxic material and causes of the widespread poisoning remains a mystery.

The head of Aceh office of the Ministry of Health, Irhamsyah R.B., on Monday conceded that health officials still could not pinpoint the source of the contamination which has struck victims in 10 subdistricts.

The latest reported case occurred on Monday when a mother and her son fell ill after consuming instant noodles.

North Aceh Police precinct chief Supt. Abadan Bangko was quoted by Antara as saying that the two residents of Jeumpa district in Biruen regency are being treated at Biruen General Hospital.

He said police have confiscated the remaining uneaten noodles for examination. (lup)