The City of Ekurhuleni (CoE) has extended its condolences to the family of a two-year-old boy who died in an accident involving a waste removal truck on May 22.

The accident happened at the intersection of Lama and Poppy Streets in Villa Liza at around 07:00 and also left an adult woman with minor injuries.

Zweli Dlamini, spokesperson for the CoE, confirmed that the vehicle involved belonged to a service provider contracted by the City’s waste management services department.

“During the unfortunate incident, a waste truck belonging to a service provider contracted to the city was involved in an accident where two pedestrians were struck. One individual, a two-year-old child, tragically passed away at the scene, while an adult was left with minor injuries,” Dlamini said.

He added, “We are extremely saddened by this incident and our heartfelt sympathy goes to the family of the little boy. We also wish the injured person a speedy recovery.”

The city confirmed that waste collection services in the area are fully outsourced, and the contracted company has pledged to take full responsibility as required by the terms of their agreement with the municipality.

According to the contract, the CoE is indemnified against such incidents.

Sergeant Nkemeleng Mabula, spokesperson for the Dawn Park Police Station, confirmed that a case is under investigation.

“We were contacted about the incident. It is alleged that the victims were run over by the truck. The child, aged two, was declared deceased on the scene while the woman was taken to hospital for medical attention. The case is under investigation.”

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