TikTok Challenge Likely Behind Poisoning in Venezuelan Schools
Venezuela’s Scientific, Penal, and Criminal Investigation Service Corps (CICPC) is investigating cases of mass poisoning recorded in high schools in the states of Portuguesa and Barinas. These events may be associated with the viral challenge of “chroming”.
So far, there are more than 100 reports of young people poisoned in Portuguesa and 94 cases in Barinas.
On November 5, 9, and 11, cases of mass poisoning were recorded in the Carlos MarĂa González Bona high schools in the state of Barinas; in 27 de Junio high school ​​in TurĂ©n, Portuguesa state; and in the JosĂ© de la Cruz Paredes high school located in San Rafael de Onoto, also in the state of Portuguesa.
Unofficially, it was learned that the poisoning was caused by a pink liquid (homemade tear gas) prepared by the students, which may be associated with the viral “challenge.”
“Chroming” became popular on TikTok and consists of inhaling toxic vapors from markers, metallic or spray paints, solvents, glue, nail polish remover, gasoline, and any other chemical substance in aerosol form.
By inhaling these gases, young people can experience a sensation similar to that of a person who is under the influence of drugs.
Given the alarming situation, the general commissioner of the CICPC in the state of Portuguesa, Luis Medina, reported that the regional authorities are focused on finding a “serious and responsible” way to provide medical attention to the intoxicated young people, to whom they guarantee free healthcare.
He also announced that there are two teenagers detained for their alleged connection with the poisoning of the students at the 27 de Julio high school in Turén.
“Blood samples were taken from the students who were poisoned to (…) determine what type of substances could have affected our students,” he said.
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Victims of the Chroming Challenge
One of the most viral cases of this challenge occurred in 2023 when a 13-year-old girl in Australia inhaled a can of deodorant during a sleepover.
After inhaling the substance, the minor began to feel ill and subsequently suffered cardiac arrest and died.
These aerosols contain butane gas, which causes severe sore throat burning, fainting, and comas.
Given this context and the dangers that social networks generate in children and adolescents, President Nicolás Maduro announced a pilot plan in 100 schools and 100 high schools in the country to regulate the use of these platforms.
“We are going to take clear and powerful steps to protect children and young people in their educational development process. The Ministry of Education has to do much more to protect children from these harmful influences,” said the head of state.
(RedRadioVE) by Ana PerdigĂłn, with Orinoco Tribune content
Translation: Orinoco Tribune
OT/BR/SL
