Prosecutors in Taipei, Taiwan have taken action against the manager and chef of Polam Kopitiam, a Malaysian restaurant chain, restricting them from leaving the country amid suspicions of their involvement in a food poisoning case. The investigation follows the tragic deaths of two individuals and the illness of dozens more who dined at the establishment.
An autopsy revealed the presence of bongkrekic acid in one of the deceased patrons, marking the first instance of this respiratory toxin being identified in the country. Authorities are working diligently to determine the cause of the outbreak, with ongoing testing and analysis being conducted on samples collected from both deceased and hospitalized individuals who exhibited symptoms after visiting the restaurant.
Experts have identified bongkrekic acid as the likely culprit behind the food poisoning incident affecting 30 patrons who frequented the restaurant between specified dates. While 22 victims tested positive for the toxin, eight others are still undergoing examination. Tragically, two individuals lost their lives, and six others remain hospitalized, with four in critical condition.
Authorities are focusing their investigation on whether the presence of bongkrekic acid in the food was intentional or if it occurred due to endogenous toxins within the ingredients. Minister of Health and Welfare Hsueh Jui-yuan emphasized the three types of food poisoning, shedding light on the complexities of the case and the need for thorough examination. The health officials acted swiftly upon noticing unusual symptoms among patients, leading to an escalation in testing and the involvement of experts to pinpoint the root cause.
Prosecutors have escalated their scrutiny on key figures associated with the restaurant, preventing them from exiting the country as suspicions mount. The investigation is ongoing, and efforts continue to unearth the truth behind the food poisoning outbreak that has garnered national attention.