The Department of Basic Education in Gauteng says it’s learnt with shock of an incident involving at least 90 learners who were rushed to hospital on Wednesday after they had allegedly consumed ‘space cookies’ laced with dagga.
Department spokesperson Steve Mabona says the learners are in grades ranging from Grade R to 7.
Mabona says the incident took place at Pulamadibogo Primary School in Soshanguve on Wednesday morning.
Emergency services were called when dozens of the children started experiencing nausea, stomach cramps and some vomiting.
“According to information at our disposal, approximately 90 learners from Grade R - 7 consumed what looked like muffins, suspected to be laced with dagga, which they bought from a street vendor on their way to school,” Mabona said in a statement.
“Educators witnessed strange behaviour from the learners in class and immediately called emergency services for necessary support.”
He said all 90 affected learners were attended to by emergency services on the school premises.
However, they were all subsequently rushed to different medical facilities where their condition will be monitored.
Mabona said police visited the school as the incident caused distress among parents who also came as they were concerned about the safety of their children.
“Subsequently, the street vendor was identified and police will conduct their investigation accordingly,” he said.
Provincial Education Department MEC, Matome Chilhoane, said: “Indeed, this is concerning for us and we call for patience from parents while investigations are underway and learners are recovering.
“We implore learners to be vigilant of what they purchase and consume, and be cautious of who they purchase food from. We wish all affected learners speedy recovery,” said MEC Chiloane.
