Gurugram, India: The manager of a local hotel in Gurugram has been apprehended by police following allegations that the establishment served dry ice disguised as a traditional post-meal mouth freshener to a group of diners. The incident resulted in five patrons experiencing severe reactions, including vomiting and bleeding from their mouths, necessitating their immediate hospitalization.
Authorities have identified the substance in question as dry ice, a solid form of carbon dioxide commonly used as a cooling agent. The episode unfolded on Saturday when Ankit Kumar, a resident of Greater Noida, along with his wife and friends, visited the restaurant. After their meal, a waiter presented them with a packet of what was purported to be a customary mouth freshener.
Upon consumption, the diners reported an immediate onset of burning sensations, bleeding from their mouths, and vomiting. The hotel manager has been taken into custody in Gurugram city on charges related to the intentional poisoning causing harm.
The search for the owner of the food establishment is currently underway, as the individual is reportedly absconding. The victims, as depicted in a circulating video on social media, can be seen in visible distress, with some attempting to alleviate the burning sensation by applying ice and consuming water.
The customers have also complained, accusing the restaurant staff of refusing assistance during the ordeal. Further examination by a doctor confirmed the presence of dry ice in the packet initially presented as a mouth freshener.
The police have initiated a forensic analysis of the mouth freshener contents as part of an ongoing investigation into the case. Authorities remain committed to uncovering the details surrounding this disturbing incident and ensuring accountability for those involved.
