The Etwatwa community is reeling in shock after three young boys were knocked down by a learner driver who allegedly lost control of the vehicle.
The children were playing at a recreational park in Emaphupheni on June 27 when the Toyota sedan collided with them.
One of the children, Mondli Hlatshwayo (10), was declared dead on the scene by paramedics, with the other two, Njabulo Ndala (6) and Siyabonga Mabuza (12), sustaining serious injuries.
The families of the three boys are seeking justice and urged the police to ensure that it is served.
Mondli’s parents, Lerato Hlatshwayo and Mandla Makhoba, said they are heartbroken by their son’s death.
Lerato explained around 16.15 on the day of the incident, she was called by a community member who asked her to quickly rush to the park.
“When I arrived at the park, I found the three boys lying down. The community members had apprehended the three occupants who were in the Toyota sedan,” said Lerato.
“Firefighters were then called as they are closer to the park. They assessed the children and it was too late for Mondli.”
The other two boys were transported to a local hospital for further medical assessment.
Lerato and Mandla said their son was an angel; he had a bright future ahead of him.
Lerato said Mondli’s younger brother keeps asking when his brother will come home and he cries every night when he has to go to sleep.
“As a family, we can deeply feel the void that he has left in our hearts and we miss his presence in the house as he was bubbly and he loved dancing around,” said the emotional mother.
His grandmother, Rose Mdebele, said Mondli was loved by everyone in the community. He loved helping the elderly and keeping them company.
“He used to look after me whenever I was not feeling well. He would ask me what do you need, granny?
“Now, who will look after me?” questioned the grandmother as she shed a tear.
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The Kgolagano Primary School learner wanted to be a police officer when he completed his matric.
His father said all they want is justice for their son.
Mandla expressed his disappointment as to how the Etwatwa police handled the matter.
He said no police officer had come to visit the family and give them an update of the investigations.
“I had to go to the police station to ask for the case number and to get an update on the case. All we want is for the police to do their job,” he said.
The family also questioned why the vehicle has been removed from the station and if it is not part of the evidence.
A candlelight service was held at Mondli’s home on June 30 by community members.
Mondli was buried on July 4.
Victim Njabulo Ndala:
The six-year-old is still recovering at the Nelson Mandela Children’s Hospital.
The Kgolagano Primary School learner sustained injuries on his hand, hip joint and knee.
His uncle, Sphiwe Ndala, said they are very sad about what has happened to their child and that he deserved justice.
Sphiwe said he saw the vehicle driving past them when he was with his friend at a nearby street corner.
“I then told my friends that the way the person was driving, he or she was going to knock down children who like playing on the street. Then an hour later, I was called to the park as the vehicle collided with my nephew and his two friends.”
Victim Siyabonga Mabuza:
The Dan Pharasi Primary School learner was discharged from the Far East Rand Hospital on June 28.
He was injured on his left leg and a plaster cast has been placed on his leg.
The youngster said he didn’t recall much of the incident but he remembered seeing the car driving around the park a few times.
“As we were about to leave with my friends, we saw the car speeding towards us. I then pushed my little sister to the side and the car knocked me on my left leg,” said Siyabonga.
He said he will miss his friend, Mondli, as they enjoyed playing together and doing almost everything together.
Etwatwa SAPS responds:
A 23-year-old woman has been charged with culpable homicide, reckless and negligent driving, and driving without a licence on June 27.
She made her first appearance at the Daveyton Magistrate’s Court on June 28 and the case was postponed for further investigations.
Spokesperson Sgt Khensani Mathebula said when they arrived on the scene, they found three boys knocked over by the vehicle. One was declared dead and two were transported to a local hospital.
Mathebula explained that the police do not impound the vehicle as evidence but they compile an accident report.
She also encouraged the families to get in touch with the investigating officer, Det Thabo Mahlokoane should they need any clarity on the case.
“The detective has spoken to the family and we are still waiting for the docket from the court. Once the detective receives it, he will communicate with the families and give them the latest update.”
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