22 die after consuming toxic sweets in Layyah

LAYYAH: The death toll from a recent incident of mass poisoning after the consumption of toxic sweetmeat in Layyah has risen to 22, hospital officials told Geo News on Sunday.

The incident took place at a family function at the residence of Umar Hayat in Chak 105/TDA area. Hayat reportedly brought sweets from a nearby sweetshop located at Chowk 111 to celebrate the birth of his grandson. Five persons died on the spot after eating the alleged poisonous sweets, while several others fell unconscious.

At least 40 people were reported to have been affected after consuming the poisonous sweets, and were rushed to the hospital.

Hospital administration confirmed the death of three more patients today admitted at the Nishtar Hospital, where eight other patients are still being treated, raising the toll to 22.

The dead include children, women and men, including eight persons from the same family.

Police have registered a case and started investigations.

Meanwhile, the police raided and sealed the sweetshop from where the toxic confection was bought and arrested two brothers who are said to own of the shop.