(BENTIU) – Thirteen children have been admitted to Bentiu State Hospital in Unity State after falling ill in a suspected poisoning incident, health officials have said.
The children, from Rotriak Payam in Rubkona County, became sick after reportedly consuming what officials suspect was contaminated water during a cultural event, according to information provided by local authorities.
Dr Banen Non, Director General of the State Ministry of Health, said a rapid response team had been dispatched to investigate the incident while medical tests were being conducted on the affected children.
He said 17 children were initially affected in Rotriak, and the most critical patients were referred to Bentiu State Hospital.
He said 13 children were received at the hospital, four were discharged in Rotriak, and 13 are receiving treatment.
Dr Non urged residents to remain calm while laboratory tests and investigations continue.
In a related development in September 2026, Unity State Governor Dr Joseph Manytuil and management of the Greater Pioneer Operating Company field staff paid an inspection visit to the scene where a woman fell into a hazardous, unprotected oil pond in the Unity Oil Field.
The visit followed the circulation of the woman’s picture on social media.
Governor Manytuil also visited the chemical exposure victim at Bentiu State Hospital, where he extended his sympathy to the affected family.
He instructed the Greater Pioneer Operating Company to protect the environment and prioritise safety and the well-being of communities living around the oil producing area.
On 14th September 2026, the Unity State government, through the State Ministry of Information and Communication, condemned the incident and called on regulatory bodies to immediately conduct an investigation, ensure accountability and serve justice to the affected person.
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