A shocking scandal has unfolded in Tianshui city, Gansu province, China, where a lead poisoning incident affecting over 200 kindergarten children was initially covered up by local officials and hospital staff. An official investigation has revealed a disturbing chain of events involving falsified blood tests, bribery, and negligence.
The Cover-Up Unravels
Provincial authorities have confirmed that officials tampered with the blood tests of students from Peixin Kindergarten who were poisoned. City officials also accepted bribes from a kindergarten investor while overlooking critical food safety inspections at multiple preschools. This blatant disregard for children’s health has sparked widespread outrage across China.
Toxic Meals and Inedible Paint
In a bid to attract more students, Peixin Kindergarten chefs reportedly used inedible paint to “enhance the look” of meals. Subsequent testing revealed lead levels in the food a staggering 2,000 times higher than the national safety limit. The meals included contaminated steamed red date cakes and sausage corn buns.
Arrests and Disciplinary Actions
Eight individuals were initially detained for their role in producing the toxic snacks. Six, including the kindergarten’s principal, cooks, and an investor, have been arrested. Ten other officials face “formal accounting procedures,” and 17 are under disciplinary investigation.
Hospital Negligence Adds to the Crisis
The Tianshui No. 2 People’s Hospital has also come under scrutiny for its “chaotic” management of the case and “serious dereliction of duty.” The investigation revealed that the Gansu Provincial Centre for Disease Control and Prevention failed to properly conduct testing after initial symptoms appeared in children.
Public Outcry and Government Response
The incident has ignited public anger on Chinese social media, with demands for accountability and transparent disclosure. While provincial and city officials face severe criticism, the central government claims a “quick response,” convening an expert panel to address procedural gaps.
New National Guidelines and Local Support
In the wake of the scandal, China has issued national guidelines for campus meals, mandating testing for each new batch of food and centralized procurement of staples like rice, flour, and cooking oil. Tianshui authorities have pledged free treatment for affected children and legal assistance for families.
Conclusion
The lead poisoning scandal at Peixin Kindergarten highlights serious systemic issues within the local government and healthcare system. While the swift response from the central government and newly implemented guidelines are encouraging, the lasting impact on the affected children and the erosion of public trust remains a significant concern. The demand for accountability and justice for the victims will continue to resonate as this case unfolds.
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