Parents pursue criminal case after free meal poisoning in North Sumatra
The Karo Health Agency said six students remained hospitalized as of early September. Among them was 16-year-old Febiola Purba, who developed memory loss, suffered multiple seizures and had difficulty speaking after falling ill.
Parents in North Sumatra are taking legal action after six students were hospitalized due to a mass food poisoning incident linked to the government's free meal program. Among the sickened students is 16-year-old Febiola Purba, who has experienced memory loss, multiple seizures, and difficulty speaking. Parents of the affected children have reported the kitchen preparing the meals to police over suspected negligence.
Juliadi Kaban, a lawyer representing the parents, stated that some children continue to suffer serious health issues a month after the outbreak. The parents feel there has been no adequate legal protection for their children, who became victims of food poisoning. Robianto Sembiring, another lawyer representing the victims' parents, added that the legal team is gathering evidence for a possible civil lawsuit against the kitchen.
The parents are seeking compensation for medical expenses and lost income from caring for their children during treatment. About 18 children still require intensive treatment and frequent hospital visits, experiencing symptoms like stomach problems, chest burning, itchy neck, and cracked lips. Some may also have kidney issues or neurological disorders.
Written by urgent.news from The Jakarta Post's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
