The Taraba State Police Command confirmed a heartbreaking tragedy on Wednesday, announcing that five people have lost their lives in Takum Local Government Area after eating meat allegedly tainted with poison.
The disaster, which struck the community on Tuesday, has also left eight others fighting for their lives in the hospital as they undergo emergency medical treatment.
According to a statement from the Command’s Acting Public Relations Officer, Victor Mshelizah, initial inquiries suggest a devastating accident: the victims reportedly consumed meat that had been contaminated with a toxic substance meant for rodent control.
As the news broke, police officers scrambled to the scene to assist. While those still clinging to life were rushed to nearby clinics, the deceased were moved for the necessary official procedures—a grim task for a community now plunged into mourning.
The Command has launched a full-scale investigation to piece together the exact sequence of events that led to such a catastrophic mistake.
In the wake of the deaths, authorities are pleading with the public to remain vigilant. They urged residents to immediately report any suspicious food products or sudden clusters of illness to the police or health officials to stop any further loss of life.
The Police have assured the grieving residents of Takum that they are working tirelessly to uncover the full truth, pledging that if any foul play or negligence is found, those responsible will face the full weight of the law.