Melo News | Friday, May 17, 2024 | Lusaka
Tragedy struck in the Southern Province as a total of 10 individuals lost their lives across three different districts due to the consumption of a suspected toxic homemade brew.
The first district affected was Zimba, where two individuals tragically passed away, while five others are currently fighting for their lives at Kabanga rural health centre after ingesting a concoction believed to be made from methylated spirit.
According to Police Deputy Spokesperson Danny Mwale, the incident took place on Sunday, May 12, 2024, and Monday, May 13, 2024, but was only reported to the authorities on May 16, 2024.
Investigations conducted by the police revealed that the tragic events unfolded in Siankope, a village located in Chief Simwatachela’s area, at different times.
Further probing into the matter unveiled that the victims had brewed the toxic beverage using methylated spirit mixed with sugar, leading to their discomfort and subsequent deaths after consumption.
Additionally, Mr. Mwale shared that three individuals lost their lives in Pemba District, with four others currently receiving medical attention at Kasiya Mission Hospital, while five fatalities were reported in Namwala District under similar circumstances, painting a grim picture of the devastating consequences of consuming the lethal homemade brew.
