Six die of suspected food poisoning in East Region.

According to information gathered, the victims, including children aged eight to 12, whose identities we couldn't get, came together to share a meal prepared from corn that had been treated with pesticides. 

The use of pesticides in the farms is generally designed to deter pests on farms, and ensure that the crops germinate without any harm. 

A little while after consuming the meal they prepared, they began feeling pains in their stomach. Unfortunately, six of them died on the spot, and just two were transported to a health facility for medical attention.

Local authorities reported that the corn's contamination actually led to the devastating outcome, leaving six fatalities and two individuals hospitalised in critical condition at the Regional Hospital in Bertoua. The bodies of the deceased have been taken to the hospital for investigation and burial arrangements.

The incident has raised serious concerns about agricultural practices in the Region, particularly the use of toxic chemicals in food preservation. 

Community leaders are calling for stricter regulations on pesticide use and better education on food safety to prevent such tragedies in the future.

Meantime, as the village mourns, an investigation is underway to determine how the contaminated corn was allowed to be consumed. 

The community's grief is palpable, as they reflect on the loss of six lives due to negligence in handling agricultural chemicals. 

The incident has sounded the alarm of potential dangers associated with improper pesticide usage, urging a reevaluation of farming practices to safeguard public health.

This story was first published in The Guardian Post issue No:3212 of Wednesday August 28, 2024