Five persons have reportedly died and eight others are battling for survival in hospital after allegedly eating meat suspected to have been tainted with poison in Takum Local Government Area of Taraba State.
The incident, said to have occurred on Tuesday, was confirmed on Wednesday by the state police command.
In a statement released by the Acting Police Public Relations Officer, Victor Mshelizah, the command disclosed that early findings pointed to the consumption of meat believed to have been contaminated with a toxic substance allegedly used for rodent control.
The police explained that upon receiving information about the development, officers were promptly dispatched to the community. The victims were rushed to nearby health facilities for urgent medical attention, while the bodies of the deceased were evacuated for necessary documentation and procedures.
According to the command, a detailed investigation has been initiated to establish the exact cause of the tragedy and identify those responsible for the alleged contamination.
Residents were urged to exercise caution and immediately notify security agencies of any suspicious food items, sudden illness, or unusual incidents within their communities.
The police assured that the probe would be thorough and that anyone found culpable would be prosecuted in accordance with the law.
