Luuka School: 25 Pupils Hospitalized After Consuming Poisoned White Ants

A disturbing incident has led to the hospitalization of 25 primary school pupils in Luuka District. The students, attending Buwanda Primary School in Nawampiti, fell ill after reportedly eating white ants that had been contaminated with poison.

The incident, which occurred on Thursday, caused immediate panic among students and staff, prompting the rapid transfer of the affected children to Kiyunga Health Centre IV for urgent medical attention.

Luuka Resident District Commissioner, Michael Kibwika, confirmed the situation, stating that the pupils are under close medical observation. “Twenty-five pupils at Buwanda Primary School in Nawampiti have been poisoned. The victims have been evacuated to Kiyunga Health Centre IV where they are undergoing serious treatment and so far all cases are under management,” Kibwika stated.

Initial reports suggest that one pupil brought the contaminated white ants to school and shared them with several classmates before leaving the premises. Police have since launched a search for this pupil as investigations into the source of the contamination and the circumstances surrounding the distribution of the ants are ongoing.

Authorities are urging parents and school officials to remain calm while the investigation proceeds. Education and health officials have been dispatched to the school to offer support to the affected students and their families. This event has highlighted concerns regarding food safety and student supervision within school environments, particularly concerning food items brought from outside and shared among learners.

Further details are expected as the police investigation continues. https://nilepost.co.ug/news/361896/25-pupils-hospitalised-after-eating-contaminated-white-ants-at-luuka-school