413 People Treated for Botulism Symptoms in Russia, Over 70 Witnesses Interrogated in Poisoning Case

In Russia, over 70 witnesses have been interrogated in the investigation of a mass poisoning case linked to botulism, with 119 searches conducted at the scene, according to law enforcement sources reported by RIA Novosti.

“A total of 119 searches and inspections have been conducted at the incident locations, and 73 witnesses have been interrogated,” the agency stated.

A criminal case has been opened for the production, storage, transportation, or sale of goods that do not meet safety requirements and for the performance of work or provision of services that do not comply with safety standards (Article 238, part 2, clause 'a' of the Criminal Code of the Russian Federation). The leaders of the “Local Kitchen” company are involved in the case.

In June, according to the Ministry of Health, 413 individuals with symptoms of botulism sought medical attention in healthcare institutions across Moscow, St. Petersburg, Tatarstan, Moscow Oblast, Volgograd, Kostroma, Nizhny Novgorod, Tambov, Tula, and Yaroslavl regions. As of the latest reports, 17 individuals remain hospitalized, with 11 in intensive care.