Investigation Service launches probe into kindergarten intoxication cases - 55 children and one teacher from 20 kindergartens in Tbilisi show signs of intoxication and received medical care at six clinics
The Investigation Service immediately launched an investigation into cases of intoxication among children and a teacher at kindergartens in Tbilisi upon receiving notification, the Investigation Service of the Ministry of Finance of Georgia reports.
The investigation is being conducted under Part 2 of Article 198 of the Criminal Code of Georgia, concerning the production and sale of products that are dangerous to human life or health and have posed a threat to human life or health.
“According to information available at this stage, 55 children and one teacher from 20 kindergartens in Tbilisi are showing signs of intoxication. They sought medical assistance at six medical facilities in Tbilisi.
“As part of the ongoing investigation, more than 50 legal representatives of children, as well as employees of medical facilities, have already been interviewed.
“To establish the circumstances of the case in a timely manner, investigative and procedural measures, including searches, were carried out intensively throughout the night at four kindergartens and three companies supplying food products to kindergartens.
“Investigative measures are being carried out in close cooperation with relevant units of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Georgia and the National Food Agency, a legal entity of public law under the Ministry of Environmental Protection and Agriculture of Georgia. Representatives of the National Food Agency are also participating in the searches.
“According to information available at this stage, the intoxication may be linked to a bacterial infection, the source of which is presumably food products consumed at the kindergartens. The specific product that caused the intoxication will be determined following the relevant expert examination.
“The investigation is ongoing. Items, documents and food products relevant to the case will be seized from all kindergartens where cases of intoxication have been reported.
“The public will be provided with additional information on the progress and results of the investigation,” the statement said.
