By RODRICK DESURI
Auki
A 40-year-old man from West Kwaio, Malaita Province, has died after eating poisonous fish (pufferfish or balloon fish) last week.
The tragic incident occurred on Friday, November 7, 2025, after the man reportedly consumed the fish during a diving trip.
A witness told Islands Sun Auki that the victim’s relatives rushed him to Sinamuari Clinic, but he was later pronounced dead upon arrival.
Island Sun understands that this case now accounts for three people who have died from pufferfish poisoning in Malaita Province.
In 2021 two people died after eating poisonous fish at Niutakwa village in Kolombangara Island.
Speaking to this paper, Elizabeth Koi, a local woman who has experience and knowledge in preparing the fish, said the balloon fish has been a known killer for many years.
“Balloon fish is the most poisonous fish. Many people have died from eating it.
“It can only be eaten safely if prepared by people who know how to remove the poisonous parts from the fish organs,” she added.
Meanwhile, scientific reports confirm that pufferfish contains a potent neurotoxin called tetrodotoxin, found mainly in the liver, ovaries and other organs.
The toxin is highly lethal, even in small amounts, causing symptoms such as numbness, paralysis, and in severe cases, death.
Experts warn that cooking does not destroy the toxin, and since there is no known antidote, treatment for poisoning is limited to supportive medical care.
Photo: Supplied
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