Third suspect nabbed in Soshaguve ‘space cookies’ case
Three suspects appeared in the Soshanguve Magistrate’s Court on Friday after they were linked to the sale of dagga-laced cookies to school pupils.
Earlier this month, at least 90 children from the Pulamadibogo Primary School in Soshanguve, near Pretoria, received medical treatment when they fell ill after they ate the muffins that they allegedly bought from street vendors.
The school became aware of the incident after the pupils, who range from Grade R to Grade 7, reportedly experienced nausea, stomach cramps, and some vomiting in class.
READ: 90 Soshanguve pupils in hospital after eating 'space cookies'
The trio, aged between 19 and 29 years, appeared briefly in court, where they face several counts of attempted murder charges.
Community members picketed outside court, calling for the suspects not to be granted bail.
Meanwhile, Gauteng Education MEC Matome Chiloane has welcomed the latest arrest.
“The recently arrested suspect and initial two suspects appeared at the Soshanguve Magistrates Court today on Friday, 29 September 2023, after the case was postponed during their first appearance last week,” read the statement from the department.
MEC Chiloane wished all the affected pupils good health after all of them were discharged from the hospital by the end of last week.
“We wish the affected learners a full recovery during this Term three recess and hope they return healthy and ready for Term four.”
The case has been postponed to 4 October for further investigation.
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