Police in Uganda are investigating the deaths of four young pupils at a school in Kampala, the capital, amid suspicions that they may have been poisoned. The four girls, aged between nine and 11, died on Tuesday. Three of them passed away at home, while the fourth died while receiving emergency treatment at a hospital.
Head Teacher Arrested
The head teacher of Ta'aliim Primary School and Quran Memorisation Centre has been arrested to assist with the investigation. According to the school, eight pupils had eaten oranges that were shared by a fellow pupil. Five pupils, including the four who later died, started vomiting. The fifth is still in hospital.
Post-mortem examinations are being conducted to determine the exact cause of death. A police spokesperson told local media that detectives would visit the village where the oranges came from. The centre has been cordoned off as a crime scene.
Grieving Parents Demand Answers
Ugandan media shared videos of grieving parents describing their children's final moments, with some accusing the school of failing to provide clear and timely information. The police have offered condolences to the bereaved families and the affected community, and say more information will be provided in due course.
The tragedy comes at a time when concerns are mounting over health and safety conditions in schools across Uganda. Previous cases involving suspected contaminated food and exposure to harmful substances have left pupils hospitalised with symptoms including stomach pain, vomiting and breathing difficulties. These incidents have intensified calls for authorities to strengthen monitoring of school feeding schemes, improve hygiene standards and ensure safer learning environments for children.
The deaths have shocked the local community and raised questions about the safety of food provided in schools. As investigations continue, authorities are under pressure to address the broader issue of school safety to prevent further tragedies.
