Criminal case opened after mass poisoning in Tashkent region kindergartens

A criminal case has been opened over the poisoning of children at several kindergartens in Piskent, Buka and Quyi Chirchiq districts of Tashkent region, the Children’s Ombudsman reported.

According to the information, on 24 September, pupils of state kindergartens in Piskent, Buka and Quyi Chirchiq districts turned to district medical associations with complaints of high fever, nausea and diarrhea.

The affected children were given the necessary treatment. Most of them were discharged home the same day after their condition improved, and no severe cases were reported.

At present, inspections are being carried out in kindergarten kitchens, and samples of food consumed by children during the day are being tested in laboratories.

On 25 September, the Investigation Department of the Tashkent regional police opened a criminal case under Article 257-1, Part 1 of the Criminal Code and began preliminary investigative actions.

The Children’s Ombudsman will continue monitoring the case in the interests of children, the statement said.

Earlier, the Ministry of Preschool and School Education had reported that poisoning cases were detected in kindergartens in Piskent and Buka districts. According to the ministry, the incident may have been caused by kefir produced at a workshop in Oqqorgon district.

Neither the police, nor the ministry, nor the Children’s Ombudsman have clarified how many kindergartens were affected or how many children suffered from poisoning.