38 people have been poisoned, of which 17 are receiving treatment at Lundazi District Hospital after a water well was poisoned in Mwase Chiefdom.
Out of the 17 receiving medical care, 11 are children and six are adults.
Acting Lundazi District Hospital Medical Superintendent Chota Phiri has told Eastern Province Police Commanding Officer Robertson Mweemba and Eastern Province Permanent Secretary Paul Thole that all 17 are out of danger and responding well to treatment.
Dr. Phiri says the patients were presenting with diarrhoea and abdominal pains, which have been managed.
Eastern Province Police Commanding Officer Robertson Mweemba says investigations are underway to establish the circumstances and motive behind the act, adding that the well has been secured.
Meanwhile, Eastern Province Permanent Secretary Paul Thole commended the medical team for its swift action in saving lives.
By Samuel Khwawe
