Father, two children die after suspected poisoning incident in Uch Sharif

A man and his two young children have died after reportedly consuming contaminated milk in Uch Sharif, raising concerns over a possible food poisoning incident, officials said on Monday.

According to initial reports, the victims, 45-year-old Rao Anwar, his six-year-old son Ehtesham, and three-year-old daughter Alisha, fell unconscious after allegedly consuming milk along with watermelon.

They were rushed to Bahawal Victoria Hospital, where the two children were pronounced dead, followed by the father later, bringing the death toll to three.

Funeral prayers for the deceased children were offered in their native village. Meanwhile, another child from the same family is currently under treatment at the hospital and is said to be in critical condition.

Following the incident, the Punjab Food Authority dispatched investigation teams to the area. Officials said a detailed report will be compiled after examining the circumstances surrounding the deaths.

A spokesperson for the authority, quoting rescue officials, said the family had consumed watermelon and milk before losing consciousness. Authorities are probing whether the food items were contaminated or adulterated.

Further investigations are underway to determine the exact cause of the incident.