In a concerning turn of events, approximately 50 individuals fell victim to a severe bout of food poisoning during a gathering in the town of Hawija, situated to the west of Kirkuk, Iraq. This incident was brought to light by state media reports on Wednesday evening, assuring the public that the situation is presently under control.
While certain local media outlets suggested that the outbreak occurred at a wedding celebration, reporting at least 20 individuals requiring hospitalization for treatment, official confirmation on the nature of the gathering remains pending.
This unfortunate occurrence transpired in the wake of a devastating fire that engulfed a crowded wedding venue in northern Iraq late Tuesday night, claiming the lives of more than 100 individuals.
Throughout Wednesday morning, firefighters diligently combed through the charred remnants of the building located in Qaraqosh, also known as Al-Hamdaniya. Meanwhile, grieving family members gathered outside a morgue in the nearby city of Mosul, grappling with the loss of their loved ones.
The authorities continue to investigate these distressing incidents, with further updates expected as additional details emerge.