In a statement, Nazaha said that this was in reaction to the information of the poisoning event that happened in Riyadh on May 23, 2024.To pinpoint the exact source of poisoning, a great deal more study has been done, including laboratory tests and epidemiological surveys.
The study identified a specific food ingredient as the cause of the contamination, which prompted its removal from grocery stores and eateries across the country.
Accountability actions will be taken against individuals who broke public safety rules or impeded the investigation.
On May 23, 2024, in Riyadh, the Oversight and Anti-Corruption Authority (Nazaha) issued a statement regarding the food poisoning incident that occurred there. The statement goes as follows:The Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, as well as His Royal Highness the Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia, paid close attention to a recent incident of food poisoning that occurred at a restaurant in Riyadh. In undertaking it, this action has been guided by the Kingdom’s on-going commitment to ensuring the safety and health of the populace. The concerned authorities such as the ministries, departments and committees received royal orders to carry out a comprehensive study. They prepared comprehensive studies discussing events, causes and names of suspected people who poisoned others at all hours of the day and night.In these reports, laboratory tests were performed on samples obtained from a variety of places, and information was provided regarding the medical care that was provided to individuals who were likely victims.
The preliminary epidemiological investigation quickly identified the occurrence as limited to a single restaurant in Riyadh. Foodborne illness specialists from all over the world collaborated to carry out precise laboratory testing, rapidly identifying the nature of the poisoning and its cause. The conclusive findings from these laboratories identified a particular food component as the origin of the contamination. Grocery stores and restaurants nationwide quickly removed this component from their shelves.To reassure citizens and residents, the Oversight and Anti-Corruption Authority (Nazaha) has confirmed the containment and resolution of the situation. Furthermore, Nazaha confirms the implementation of accountability actions against any individuals found to have broken public safety rules, impeded the investigation, or concealed vital information regarding the cause of the poisoning.
The Nazaha inquiry revealed attempts to conceal or destroy evidence, suggesting that a small group of unethical food facility inspectors may have put their own personal gain ahead of the public's health and safety.In accordance with royal decrees, all responsible officials, irrespective of their status, are required to accept accountability. This category includes the activities of those who disregarded or delayed fulfilling their responsibilities. These behaviors may have contributed to the poisoning or hampered efforts to respond to the situation. This led to the establishment of a high-level committee to monitor and supervise the implementation of these principles.
