In an unfortunate series of events that echoes the tragic instant noodles deaths from last year, three siblings passed away after consuming energy drinks that were allegedly given to them by their father.
The three boys, aged 6, 13 and 16, were all learners at Ratanda Primary and Khanya Lesedi Secondary Schools in Ratanda, Heidelberg.
It is alleged that the father of the three deceased siblings gave all of his five children energy drinks in the morning as they were preparing for school. Four of the children drank the energy drinks after arriving at their respective schools on Thursday 26 May. Tragically, two of the children died shortly after complaining of stomach pains while the other one was rushed to the nearest hospital but unfortunately died on the way. The fourth sibling is in critical condition at the hospital.
The brand of energy drink is currently still undisclosed.
Gauteng’s Education MEC, Mr Panyaza Lesufi, expressed his condolences in a media statement after learning about the incident: “Firstly, I wish to convey my sincerest condolences to the family, particularly the mother, of the deceased learners. I further extend my condolences to friends, fellow learners and teachers of the learners, especially those who had witnessed these tragic incidents.”
It is currently not yet known what exactly led to the deaths of the children, and law enforcement agencies are investigating circumstances surrounding the deaths. Counsellors have been dispatched to the affected schools to offer counselling to the whole school community. These services have also been offered to the bereaved family.
MEC Lesufi will visit both schools and family today, 27 May, starting at Ratanda Primary School at 10am.
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Police investigating deaths of three children who allegedly fell ill after eating noodles
Picture: Cape {town} Etc gallery
