Johnathan Paoli
Gauteng Education MEC Matome Chiloane devastated by the tragic death of two Grade 1 learners from Naledi, Soweto.
MEC Chiloane expressed his condolences on Tuesday, saying he was devastated by the recent death of two Grade 1 learners from Kgauhelo Primary and Karabo Primary schools in Naledi, Soweto after allegedly eating biscuits and juice purchased from a spaza shop.
Two other Grade 1 learners from Ikemeleng Primary school are currently in a critical condition and are receiving medical care at Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital after allegedly eating snacks from the same spaza shop as well.
“This incident serves as a grave reminder to parents and guardians to exercise utmost caution when it comes to the safety and well-being of our learners,” Chiloane said.
Gauteng Police spokesperson Dimakatso Nevhuhulwi said the community members had issued threats to loot and burn the spaza shop. However, the police stopped the angry community members and warned that such actions could jeopardise evidence.
Nevhuhulwi said an investigation into the cause of death is currently ongoing.
The shop has since been shut down by the police and members of the community with other spaza shops operated by foreigners also being closed in parts of the township.
Operation Dudula leader Ntonto Kente said the shutdown of foreign-owned spaza shops which started on Tuesday would continue in an effort to prevent the poisoning and killing of South African children.
“The whole of this week will be dedicated to shutting down these businesses. We can’t let our children die and do nothing,” Kente said.
The Gauteng Department of Education called for the community’s support and understanding during the investigation, saying that parents need to remain vigilant when it comes to safeguarding the well-being of their children.
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