Prosecutors in Uruguay are investigating after dozens of people were attacked and injured by honeybee swarms.
Thirty-seven pedestrians needed medical assistance after getting stung by the insects, according to Alejandro Abreu from police in the city of Melo in the department of Cerro Largo, eastern Uruguay.
Cerro Largo Police deputy chief Fernando Pedrozo told local newspapers that passersby and motorists had been attacked out of the blue in at least three locations.
Mayor Commissioner Neyker Bejeres announced that there were eight minors and 10 pensioners among the victims.
Melo Police and the city’s fire brigade cooperated with beekeeping experts to bring the situation in the city centre under control again. Chemical substances have been applied to the insects to avoid a further escalation, according to Uruguayan media.
Investigators have reportedly already identified the owner of the colonies but remained tight-lipped regarding any further details. State prosecutor Adriana Cruz is expected to publish her evaluation shortly.
According to Melo Police, prosecutors might consult the National Institute of Animal Welfare (INBA) as they do in cases of pets attacking humans.
