In Venezuela, seven cases of mass intoxications in schools across different states have been reported, announced President Nicolás Maduro. Two of these new cases were detected in the state of Portuguesa, adding to the two previously reported in that area. Two cases were also identified in Miranda and one in Barinas.
Maduro mentioned that these incidents are related to viral challenges on social media, specifically the challenge known as 'chroming'. This challenge involves young people preparing chemicals in containers and spreading them in areas such as desks, floors, and bathrooms, which has caused poisonings among students.
The president indicated that there are people detained in connection with these cases, although he did not disclose the number or the total of those affected. During the program 'Maduro Live de Repente', he highlighted that he has been closely monitoring this situation and expressed his concern for the safety of student communities.
The first incident of mass poisoning occurred on November 5 in a school in Barinas, where 94 people were affected. Subsequently, 85 poisonings were recorded at a school in Portuguesa. Authorities have begun investigations to clarify the origin of the chemical substances involved in these events.
