Bandung police investigate mass food poisoning at 88 Seoul restaurant

Authorities in Bandung, Indonesia, are investigating a suspected mass food poisoning incident at the 88 Seoul Korean restaurant located in the 23 Paskal mall. More than 200 people reportedly fell ill after consuming food at the establishment.

Polrestabes Bandung has conducted a crime scene investigation and is interviewing witnesses and victims to gather further information. Simultaneously, the Bandung City Health Office performed an environmental health inspection. Preliminary findings from the health office indicated that the restaurant needs to improve its hygiene and sanitation practices, specifically regarding the arrangement of fresh and dry food ingredients and the separation of food from chemical substances like cleaning liquids.

Legal experts note that if investigations prove violations of consumer protection laws, the restaurant management could face significant consequences. Under Indonesian Consumer Protection Law, penalties may include civil compensation, administrative sanctions such as the revocation of business licenses, or criminal charges carrying a maximum sentence of five years in prison and a fine of up to Rp2 billion.