8 arrested after dozens of children suffer lead poisoning in northwestern China

​​​​​​​By Berk Kutay Gokmen

ISTANBUL (AA) - Eight suspects in China, who are linked to a lead poisoning at Peixin Kindergarten in northwestern Gansu Province, were arrested after authorities found the school had illegally added inedible painted pigments to food, Global Times reported Tuesday.

Authorities said all 251 children at the kindergarten in Tianshui have been tested, with 233 showing abnormal blood lead levels. An expert medical team has been assembled for treatment.

Of 223 food samples tested, two items from the kindergarten showed lead levels far exceeding the national limit.

Investigators found that the kindergarten’s head, who was identified as Zhu, and investor, Li, instructed staff to buy decorative paint online, dilute it, and use it in food.

Police seized the paint July 3, confirming it contained lead and was labeled inedible.

Zhu, Li, and six others are in custody for producing toxic food; two others are under bail. National health authorities have sent experts to assist with the response.

For treatment, Zhang Hao, director of the Health Commission of Gansu Province, said the province has mobilized 18 experts in toxicology, critical care and pediatrics, as well as designated three hospitals.