Yakutsk shawarma kiosk shut down after poisoning two customers

A street food kiosk in Yakutsk has been shut down for 90 days after two customers fell seriously ill. A woman and her child were hospitalised on 18 May 2026, shortly after eating shawarma from the vendor. Authorities later uncovered multiple sanitary breaches at the site.

The incident began when the woman and her child experienced severe symptoms after consuming food from the kiosk. The child suffered from persistent vomiting and extreme weakness, requiring five days in hospital—two of which were spent in intensive care. The woman underwent an emergency stomach pump at the scene.

An inspection by Rospotrebnadzor revealed 21 serious violations of sanitary regulations. The court determined that these breaches created a significant public health risk, endangering consumers' lives and well-being. The kiosk operator, who failed to attend the hearing, was found guilty under Article 6.6 of Russia’s Administrative Offenses Code. The ruling, issued at 12:54 PM on 21 May 2026, ordered the immediate suspension of operations for 90 days. However, the decision has not yet taken full legal effect, leaving room for either side to file an appeal.

The kiosk remains closed as the legal process continues. The case highlights the consequences of severe hygiene failures in food service. Both victims have since been discharged, but the shutdown period will last unless overturned on appeal.