More than 60 primary school children in Jamaica have been hospitalised after eating potent rainbow-coloured cannabis candy, causing them vomiting and hallucinations.
The incident occurred at Ochos Rios Primary School in St Ann, and the children were transported to the hospital for medical attention.
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Fortunately, none of the affected children was in critical condition.
Each piece of the cannabis candy contained a staggering 100 milligrams of THC, which is considered a strong dose even for experienced adults.
Some children required intravenous drips (IV) to expedite their recovery.
Education Minister Fayval Williams said: “I feel confident that together we will strengthen our safety and security regime to combat the unconscionable sale of marijuana-infused products to children.”
On Monday, Mr Williams shared an image of a colourful packet of Full Throttle Sour Belts, which contained the potent THC-infused candies.
He said the ingredient was potent, “one little boy said he only had one sweetie.”
Jamaica decriminalised the possession of up to 57 grams of marijuana for specific purposes, such as religious, medicinal, and scientific use, in 2015.
Additionally, the country established a licensing agency to regulate its legal medical cannabis industry.
The incident has sparked concerns about child safety and the sale of such products near schools.
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