Ninety learners hospitalised after consuming space cookies

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Ninety learners from Pulamadibogo Primary School in Soshanguve, Pretoria were rushed to hospital after consuming space cookies on Wednesday.

Gauteng Department of Education confirmed the incident and said this comes after learners started experiencing nausea, stomach cramps and some vomiting from allegedly consuming space cookies.

According to the departmental spokesperson, Steve Mabona, approximately 90 learners from Grade R – 7 consumed what looked like muffins, suspected to be laced with dagga (space cookies), which they bought from a street vendor on their way to school.

“Educators witnessed strange behaviour from the learners in class and immediately called emergency services for necessary support.

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“All 90 affected learners were attended to by emergency services on school premises. However, they were all subsequently rushed to different medical facilities where their condition will be monitored,” he stated.

Police visited the school as this incident caused distress among parents who also came as they were concerned about the safety of their children.

Subsequently, the street vendor was identified and police will conduct their investigation accordingly.

“Indeed, this is concerning for us and we call for patience from parents while investigations are underway and learners are recovering.

“We implore learners to be vigilant of what they purchase and consume, and be cautious of who they purchase food from,” said Gauteng Education MEC Matome Chiloane.

The department has wished all affected learners speedy recovery.