Director of a private kindergarten poisoned more than 230 children

The owner of a private kindergarten in the Chinese city of Tianshui province of Gansu Li Huifang received a life sentence. She was found guilty of mass poisoning of pupils. This is reported by the portal Mothership.

The incident occurred in July 2025. Then 233 children were diagnosed with severe mercury poisoning. During the investigation, it turned out that on the direct instructions of the hostess, the staff added toxic industrial paint with lead to the food. This was done solely to improve the appearance of dishes. Photos and videos of appetizing food were then used in advertisements for the kindergarten.

In addition, the leadership of the institution bribed local officials and doctors. Corrupt specialists faked the results of blood tests, giving low mercury values. Many parents realized something was wrong with their children only after being examined outside the province.

The court sentenced all the defendants. In addition to a life sentence for the owner, the kindergarten director received 15 years in prison. Cooks who added poison to food were sentenced to terms of six to eight years. In the dock were also 27 officials and medical workers who covered the crimes of Huifang.