Taichung: An investigation has been launched into the deaths of two children in Taichung who were suspected of being fed unidentified drugs, police in the city said on Saturday.

According to Focus Taiwan, the authorities received a report early Saturday morning, stating that the two children residing in a building in the central Taiwanese city showed no heartbeat or signs of breathing. Emergency crews were immediately dispatched to the scene, and the children were transported to hospitals for treatment, where they were later pronounced dead.

The investigation revealed the presence of a woman in the same building, described by authorities as emotionally unstable, raising concerns she might harm herself. Consequently, she has been sent to a hospital for care. Her identity and relationship with the children have not been disclosed. Officials confirmed there was no evidence of foul play or force at the scene.

In response to the incident, the Social Affairs Bureau of the Taichung City Government has assigned social workers to assist the children’s family and ensure their safety. Additionally, the city’s Education Bureau has directed the schools attended by the children to extend condolences to the family and provide counseling services to their classmates.

Authorities reported that relatives and friends had initially assisted the children before alerting the police. Evidence has been collected from the building for further investigation. However, the type of drugs suspected to have been administered to the children has not been disclosed.

The case has been reported to the Taichung District Prosecutors Office, which will collaborate in the investigation and conduct autopsies to determine the cause of death. Taichung Mayor Lu Shiow-yen expressed grief over the incident and emphasized the importance of the ongoing investigation by prosecutors and police. She urged the public to refrain from spreading unverified information about the case.