Foodborne Illnesses Claimed 41 Lives In Sa Natjoints
Deputy National Police Commissioner Tebello Mosikili says 41 people have died of foodborne illnesses across the country.
Mosikili, who is also the chairperson of the National Joint Operational and Intelligence Structure NATJOINTS, was part of a media briefing in Pretoria this morning by government ministers who are leading the national response to instances of foodborne illnesses and illicit trading.
Mosikili says, "We are handling a total of 32 cases to date where 41 persons have died, 38 of whom are children and three are adults. In relation to the recent cases that led to the team, we havent had any arrests. We, however, do have three persons who were arrested and prosecuted and they are going to court on poisoning-related matters."
Health Minister Dr. Aaron Motsoaledi says it is understood that the Terbufos pesticide found in local spaza shops was not produced in South Africa.
However, he says this is yet to be confirmed.