Two suspects who allegedly sold space cookies to Pulamadibogo Primary School learners returned to the Soshanguve magistrate’s court on Friday.
However, the matter was postponed to October 4.
While the suspects were preparing to take the stand in court, Gauteng MEC for education, Matome Chiloane, announced that a third suspect had been arrested.
It was reported last week that the learners started experiencing nausea, stomach cramps, and vomiting after they allegedly consumed muffins laced with dagga.
The department said about 90 learners from grade R to grade 7 consumed the cakes which they allegedly bought from a street vendor on their way to school.
Teachers soon noticed strange behaviour from the learners and immediately called for emergency services to rush to the school.
The learners, who were admitted to Dr George Mukhari Academic Hospital, have since been discharged.
Police visited the school after the incident as part of an investigation. A street vendor was identified, taken in for questioning, and detained.
Following the arrest, Chiloane commended the police for their diligent work.
“We wish the affected learners full recovery during this term three recess and hope they return healthy and ready for term four,” said Chiloane.
It was reported in the media recently that the DA in the province has called on school governing bodies and the community to work together to avoid a repeat of the incident.
“Gauteng schools lack a functional vetting process for vendors to ensure learners are sold safe, hygienic, and healthy food,” the opposition party was quoted as saying.
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