Dozens of Omuthiya Detainees Fall Ill in Suspected Food Poisoning Incident
By TUW
More than 200 inmates are believed to have suffered suspected food poisoning at the Omuthiya police holding cells after reportedly falling ill shortly after eating meals served at the facility.
Sources say several detainees experienced severe symptoms including vomiting and diarrhoea, prompting authorities to rush them to the Omuthiya District Hospital for medical observation and treatment. The situation reportedly caused panic among inmates, with many fearing the condition could worsen.
According to information from inside the facility, a large number of detainees complained of stomach problems soon after consuming the food provided in the cells. It was initially alleged that about 200 inmates had to be transported to the hospital.
However, a senior regional police official, who spoke on condition of anonymity, confirmed that an incident involving suspected food poisoning did occur but disputed claims that hundreds of inmates were affected. The official indicated that only a small number of detainees required medical attention and that about eight inmates remain hospitalised while others have since been discharged.
Attempts to obtain an official statement from Chief Inspector Heinz Nakashani were unsuccessful. When approached for comment, Nakashani declined to provide information, stating that he had been instructed not to speak to the media.
Meanwhile, concerns have also been raised about overcrowding at the holding facility. The cells, which were designed to accommodate around 80 inmates, are reportedly currently housing about 510 detainees, raising questions about conditions and health risks inside the facility.
