Saudi anti-corruption agency finds hidden, destroyed evidence in food poisoning cases

Initial investigations into the recent cases of food poisoning reported in Riyadh found that several attempts had been made to conceal or destroy evidence, Saudi Arabia’s Oversight and Anti-Corruption Authority (Nazaha) said in a statement on Thursday.

The investigation suggested potential collusion by a small number of food inspectors who prioritized personal gain over public health and safety, the statement added.

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One person died and at least 75 others were hospitalized in the Kingdom’s capital city earlier in May after consuming a bacterium that was found in a mayonnaise product used by a popular burger chain.

Relevant authorities – including ministries, agencies, and committees – received royal directives to conduct a thorough investigation, Nazaha’s statement said.

“In the Kingdom’s ongoing commitment to public safety and health, the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques and His Royal Highness the Crown Prince, closely monitored the recent food poisoning incident at a Riyadh restaurant,” the statement said.

After the cases were reported, foodborne illness specialists with the Saudi Food and Drug Authority conducted precise laboratory testing to swiftly identify the type and cause of the poisoning.

The following report revealed that Clostridium botulinum bacteria, which causes Botulism, was found in a sample of “BON TUM” mayonnaise that was served by the chain.

Clostridium botulinum toxins attack nerves in the body and can cause weakness and paralysis of muscles used for movement, talking, and swallowing. The toxins can prove to be fatal if they attack nerves that control breathing.

This product was promptly removed from markets and food establishments nationwide, according to Nazaha.

To reassure all citizens and residents, the Oversight and Anti-Corruption Authority affirmed that the incident has been contained and resolved.

Furthermore, Nazaha confirmed that measures will be taken against all individuals found to have neglected public safety protocols or obstructed the investigation and concealed crucial information regarding the poisoning’s cause.

This applies to those who neglected or delayed fulfilling their duties, actions which may have contributed to the poisoning, or hindered response efforts.

Consequently, a high-level committee has been established to verify and oversee the implementation of these directives.

Read more:

One dead, 75 hospitalized in Saudi Arabia after food poisoning outbreak in restaurant

Cases of Botulism in Saudi Arabia linked to mayonnaise, product recalled