By Obakeng Maje

The police in Vioolsdrift are investigating a case of three counts of attempted murder after a 35 year old husband and father was arrested on Sunday at 13:31 at his residence in Tambo Street, Vioolsdrift. 

“It is alleged that the man fed his two children aged 4 and 9 years old and his wife poison earlier in the day” colonel Priscilla Naidu said.

Colonel Naidu further alleged that the father took blue poison that is used by farmers to kill worms and mixed it with tea. The potion was given to his wife and the two children to drink.

“The unsuspecting victims drank the poisoned tea. The community found the victims writhing in pain and alerted police who found them to be in a serious condition” said Naidu. 

They were immediately taken to hospital for medical treatment. The mother and 9 year old boy are in a critical but stable condition in the Springbok Hospital and were discharged. 

A 4 year-old daughter was transported via an emergency medical helicopter from Springbok hospital to Kimberley Hospital in a critical condition.

“The suspect was arrested and will appear in the Springbok Magistrate court today. The reason for poisoning his family is not yet known” said police. Police have seized the poison containers and other exhibits which will be sent for analysis. 

Follow us on Twitter@Taung_DailyNews