Probe ongoing as Naledi residents mourn death of 5 children from alleged food poisoning

The death of five children in Naledi, Soweto, has sparked outrage across the community, with some residents calling for the closure of foreign-owned shops in the area. 

“This is the final straw. This has gone on for far too long. They must leave our area before we start hurting one another,” said resident Phindile Lushaba about foreign-owned spaza shops in the area.

Monica Sebetwana (6), Ida Maama (7), Isago Mabote (8), Karabo Rampou (9) and Njabulo Msimanga (7) died on Sunday, 6 October 2024 after reportedly eating crisps from a local store that is reportedly owned by a migrant.

Police have taken remnants of the snacks for testing and said they are investigating the circumstances surrounding the deaths to uncover the truth and ensure justice is served.

The families of the children have recounted the horrific experience of trying to save their loved ones.

Isago’s grandmother, Agnes Mabote, told News24 of the harrowing events leading up to his death: “He ran into the house, his body shaking and rolling his eyes. He started vomiting. He complained about his stomach. He said he and his friends had eaten chips known as ‘brown dash’. He had some remnants in his back pocket.”

Despite his grandmother rushing him to Bheki Mlangeni Hospital, the child was declared dead.

According to a Naledi police report, two of the children, Ida and Njabulo, died while receiving treatment at a local clinic. Isago and Karabo died while being treated by a doctor, and Monica died on arrival at the clinic. 

Another seven-year-old child is reportedly being treated in hospital. 

The police said the children had been playing together and bought snacks at a spaza shop on Maratwe Street, the owner of which was known only as Daniel. 

“Detective Sergeant Baholo and Sergeant Nxumalo proceeded to the shop to confiscate those alleged snacks,” they said.

Johannesburg health and social development MMC Ennie Makhafola has said the store had been inspected in August and found to be compliant with relevant regulations. 

Following the deaths, residents forced a number of shops to close, supported by anti-foreigner group Operation Dudula which called for the closure of foreign-owned shops across Soweto.

Gauteng premier Panyaza Lesufi visited Naledi on Tuesday and promised the children’s families that investigators would conduct a thorough investigation. The probe would rely heavily on the sixth child who was in a critical condition in hospital. 

“The one that is in hospital will play a critical role in this investigation,” Lesufi said, warning residents not to take matters into their own hands.

Ongoing tragedy