NEW TAIPEI (TVBS News) — A private kindergarten in New Taipei City has ignited public outrage following allegations that a teacher administered drugs to the children. On June 5, authorities conducted a long-overdue investigation to determine the extent of the impact on the affected children.
Preliminary findings indicate that four children have tested positive for traces of sleeping pills and barbiturate, a Class 3 controlled substance. The exact number of children impacted by these drugs remains unknown pending further test results.
Yesterday, the New Taipei City Government's Department of Education, accompanied by the Health Bureau and medical professionals, launched an extensive investigation into the matter during their visit to the kindergarten.
Criticism has been directed toward the New Taipei City government by Claire Wang, the chairperson, and legislator of the New Power Party, who accused Mayor Hou of prioritizing his political campaign over the safety of the children during a briefing on June 5.
Concerns were raised by some parents as early as April, leading to the case being reported to the prosecutor's office in May. However, when media coverage gained momentum, the government began to take the allegations seriously.
The abnormality was discovered when the affected children exhibited extreme restlessness, irritability, and even crying during sleep. Parents immediately sought medical assistance, resulting in the shocking revelation of the drug administration. The incident has generated fear and anxiety not only among the affected children but also among parents.
Wang further expressed apprehensions regarding the lenient punishment imposed on the kindergarten, which amounted to only NT$60,000.
The drugs discovered in the children's bodies are central nervous system depressants commonly used in treating epilepsy patients. Given the underdeveloped kidneys and livers of children under five years old, these drugs pose a significant threat.
The revelation of teachers resorting to such medication for disciplinary purposes has sent shockwaves throughout the public. The investigation into the matter is ongoing as authorities work to uncover more details surrounding this deeply concerning incident.
