ISTANBUL — Investigations are ongoing into the death of a Saudi citizen in Istanbul after he reportedly suffered suspected food poisoning following a meal at a hotel restaurant, Okaz newspaper reported.
The deceased, identified as 82-year-old Saeed Suwailam Al-Mohammadi, had traveled to Istanbul on a tourist trip with his wife and was staying at a hotel in the Sisli district.
Sources said Turkish authorities have collected samples of meat and food from the restaurant where he ate, while also verifying hygiene conditions at the hotel prior to the incident.
The investigation has included the restaurant manager, chef, and a hotel official, who were later released under judicial supervision.
Preliminary findings indicate that Al-Mohammadi fell ill a day after eating, experiencing fatigue and persistent vomiting. He sought medical treatment at a hospital and was later discharged, but his condition deteriorated.
Emergency services were called to his hotel, where he was found dead.
Investigators suspect food poisoning as a likely cause, with early indications pointing to a chicken meal consumed a day before his death.
Sources said the time between consuming the meal and the onset of symptoms ranged between 20 and 23 hours.
Authorities have also reviewed surveillance footage from the restaurant, which reportedly captured the victim during the meal.
The investigation remains ongoing, with food poisoning considered one of the primary lines of inquiry.
Source: Saudi Gazette