Twenty-nine people were arrested in Mangaung, Bloemfontein, following a night of looting at foreign-owned tuck shops. The unrest erupted after 47 learners from Ihobe Primary School were hospitalized for consuming suspected expired biscuits and chocolates. A child from Toka Primary School was also rushed to the hospital due to suspected food poisoning.
Authorities confirmed that all the children, except one, have been discharged. Police spokesperson Sergeant Mahlomola Kareli reported that some tuck shop owners managed to flee with their stock, while others were forced to abandon their shops to escape harm.
Kareli added that while the situation remains calm, police are closely monitoring the area. Mangaung Metro Mayor Gregory Nthatisi is scheduled to visit Ihobe Primary School in response to the incident.
Residents are calling on the government to deploy health inspectors to wholesalers and spaza shops to ensure food safety and prevent further incidents.