ONE of the two brothers who were in critical condition after allegedly consuming crackers laced with rat poison in Kampung Padang Ubi, Kulim on Sunday died today.
Muhammad Akil Syauqi, 3, died while being treated at the Penang Hospital, while his brother, Muhammad Luth Syauqi, 2, was still undergoing treatment at the same hospital.
Kulim police chief Mohd Azizul Mohd Khairi said Akil died at 8.30am.
It was earlier reported that the crackers were found in a packet hanging from a garden fence near their home.
Mohd Azizul said the boys’ 25-year-old mother saw her sons vomiting before rushing them to the Malau Health Clinic and then to Kulim Hospital.
An investigation revealed that the two brothers had eaten crackers containing poison that were meant for monkeys. The packets of poisoned crackers were hanging from a wire on a fence in a garden near their home.
“Medical officers at Kulim Hospital found that both victims were in critical condition. At 7.30pm, the two were taken to Penang General Hospital for further treatment,” said Azizul.
The suspect in the case is believed to be the boys’ neighbour, who works as a gardener.
“The case is being investigated under Section 31(1)(a) of the Children’s Act 2001 (Act 611) and Section 284 of the Penal Code (for negligent conduct for poisonous substances),” he said. – July 10, 2024.