THE families of Leon "Captain" Jele (6) from Tladi and Neo Khang (4) from Naledi in Soweto, who died allegedly after eating biscuits from a spaza shop, are preparing for the boys' funeral services.
Tshepo Williams, Leon's grandfather, told Daily Sun they would have a candlelight ceremony of Monday, 9 October. He said the funeral service for both the children will be on Wednesday, 11 October.
Gauteng Education MEC Matome Chiloane expressed his devastation over the unfortunate deaths of two pupils from Kgauhelo Primary School and Karabo Primary School in Soweto, who died on Sunday, 1 October 2023.
Two other grade 1 girl pupils from Ikemeleng Primary School are in a critical condition and receiving medical care at Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital.
“These learners all reportedly ate biscuits and drank juice that they purchased from a specific spaza shop in their vicinity. It's alleged that their health began deteriorating after eating these goods, which resulted in two of them being hospitalised and two others passing away,” said MEC.
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“This incident serves as a grave reminder to parents and guardians to exercise utmost caution when it comes to the safety and wellbeing of our learners. It's imperative that we remain vigilant and ensure that our children are not exposed to harmful substances. We will continue to work closely with law enforcement agencies to investigate this matter thoroughly.
“We wish to extend our sincerest condolences to the affected families, and wish the two hospitalised learners a speedy recovery,” said Chiloane.
He further requested the community's support and understanding during this challenging period, also pleading with parents to be extra vigilant of what their children consume.
Police spokeswoman Colonel Dimakatso Nevhuhulwi told Daily Sun that cops have opened two inquest dockets after two kids, aged four and six, died at a clinic in Naledi on Sunday, 1 October.
“The cause of death is unknown at this stage, pending post-mortem results,” said Nevhuhulwi.
