The Investigative Service has launched an investigation into cases of intoxication at kindergartens
The Investigative Service of the Ministry of Finance of Georgia immediately initiated an investigation upon receiving a report regarding the intoxication of children and a caregiver at kindergartens in Tbilisi.
According to the Investigative Service, the investigation is proceeding under Article 198, Part 2 of the Criminal Code of Georgia, concerning the production and sale of products hazardous to human life or health—actions that endangered human life or health. "Based on current information, 55 children and one caregiver from 20 kindergartens in Tbilisi are showing signs of intoxication. They sought medical assistance at six medical facilities in the city.
As part of the ongoing investigation, the legal representatives of more than 50 children and staff members from the medical facilities have already been questioned.
To promptly establish the circumstances of the case, investigative and procedural actions—including searches—were conducted intensively throughout the night at four kindergartens and three companies that supply food products to the kindergartens.
The investigative actions are being carried out in close cooperation with relevant units of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Georgia and the National Food Agency (a legal entity of public law under the Ministry of Environmental Protection and Agriculture of Georgia). Representatives of the National Food Agency are also participating in the search operations.
Current information suggests that the intoxication may be linked to a bacterial infection, the source of which is likely a food product consumed at the kindergartens. Regarding exactly which product caused the intoxication..." The underlying cause will be determined through appropriate expert analysis.
The investigation is ongoing. Items, documents, and food products relevant to the case will be seized from all the kindergartens where cases of intoxication were recorded.
"The public will be provided with further information regarding the progress and results of the investigation," the statement notes.