Memorial service held for siblings who died in shack fire
Relebogile (15), Lethabo (13), and Kgothatso (7) Segauaque lost their lives when their home caught fire while they were asleep.
The community of Moriting in Thembisa gathered to honour the lives of three siblings who died in a shack fire.
Relebogile (15), Lethabo (13), and Kgothatso (7) Segauaque lost their lives in the early hours of September 13, when their home caught fire while they were asleep. The tragedy has left the community deeply shaken.
Family, neighbours, community leaders, and faith-based organisations came together for a short but emotional memorial service filled with messages of remembrance, unity, and support.
“The children were sweet and loved by the community. They were normal children with a great reputation for listening and helping where they could.
“I want to thank the community for standing with us at this difficult moment. It helps us move forward knowing that we have such a strong support system,” said the children’s aunt, Dineo Segauaque.
The Tembisa Local Taxi Association (TELTA) donated R4 000 to assist with funeral preparations.
Also read: Mother arrested after three children die in fire
“We saw it fit to stand with the family at this time of loss. It’s unfortunate that we have lost young minds that could have been an asset to the future of this community. We ask the family to rely on God as He knows all the answers,” said TELTA PRO Noah Moleya.
Bishop Michael Mtshali, representing Faith-Based Organisations and Memeza, called for unity.
“What is painful is that these children perished in a fire. We pass our condolences and plead with the community to support the family instead of pointing fingers. We are grateful to see people donating and giving back. The community is hurting, but we must send off the siblings with dignity and peace,” he said.
Segauaque confirmed that the family has not been in contact with the children’s mother, who was arrested on the day of the fire and has since appeared in court.
“We have not spoken to her or seen her since her arrest. We do not know how she feels or where she is,” she said.
The memorial service ended with a sense of grief but also solidarity, as community members, organisations, and political parties pledged to continue supporting the family ahead of the funerals.
