Yakutsk shawarma kiosk shut down after poisoning mother and child

A street food kiosk in Yakutsk has been shut down for 90 days after a mother and child fell seriously ill from eating shawarma. The incident, which occurred on May 18, 2026, led to an urgent investigation by health authorities.

Rospotrebnadzor inspectors uncovered 21 severe sanitary violations at the kiosk, including filthy conditions and unsafe drinking water. The court ruled that the kiosk posed a direct threat to public health, forcing its immediate closure.

The health scare began when a woman and her child were hospitalised after consuming shawarma from the kiosk. The woman required an emergency stomach pump, while her child spent two days in intensive care.

An inspection by Rospotrebnadzor revealed shocking conditions inside the kiosk. Investigators found no quality control measures, unlabeled ingredients, and heavily contaminated food preparation areas. The drinking water was also deemed unsafe for consumption. The defendant, who operated the kiosk, was charged under Article 6.6 of the Russian Code of Administrative Offenses. The court determined that the violations were systemic and posed a high risk to consumers. As a result, the kiosk was ordered to cease operations at 12:54 PM on May 21, 2026, for a period of 90 days.

The closure follows a court ruling that highlighted the severe public health risks caused by the kiosk’s operations. The defendant now faces administrative penalties, while health officials continue monitoring food safety standards in the area. The case serves as a reminder of the dangers posed by unregulated food vendors.