Aceh poisoning baffles officials

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)