‘Poisonous sweets’ claim lives of three children in Hafizabad

HAFIZABAD: A tragic event took place at the Qila Sahib Singh area of Hafizabad, where three children died and five others were in life–threatening condition after eating poisonous sweets.

The children aged from six to 13 years were playing outside their houses when an unidentified man who turned out to be a rickshaw driver gave them sweets.

At first, they enjoyed the sweets, but as the children began to show severe symptoms of poisoning, the family members took them to the District Head Quarters (DHQ) Hospital Hafizabad.

Despite the best efforts of the medical staff, three of the children succumbed to the poisoning, leaving their families in shock and grief. The deceased children were identified, and their bodies were handed over to their families after medico-legal formalities, including post-mortem examinations.

The remaining five children, all close relatives of the deceased, were provided emergency treatment before being referred to Children’s Hospital Lahore for specialized care due to their critical condition.

Each of the relatives of the deceased children was provided with treatment. The Hafizabad City Police began proceedings against an unknown Rickshaw Driver based on a written complaint of Shahbaz, (Father of one deceased child known as Danish). A formal investigation report was prepared and forwarded to District Police Officer Hafizabad.

Deputy Commissioner Abdul Razzaq expressed deep sadness over the tragic loss of innocent lives, stating that the district administration would leave no stone unturned to make sure justice is delivered.

The incident shocked the community. It is now more important than ever for us to be vigilant in saving the lives of citizens, especially those of children, while giving assurance to others.