Families in Ga-Rankuwa are preparing to lay their loved ones to rest after five young boys were found deceased on July 5 morning from what is believed to have been a carbon monoxide poisoning incident.
Gauteng police spokeswoman Captain Tintswalo Sibeko confirmed that an inquest docket has been opened as authorities continue investigating the circumstances surrounding the deaths.
According to family spokesman Mpho Ramong, the group had gathered at a house in the Tsunami section of Ga-Rankuwa on Saturday before deciding to use an imbawula, also known as a brazier, to keep warm during the night.
“Later, during the night, they decided to put on an imbawula. They inhaled the smoke and died,” Ramong claimed.
“This is a shocking incident that has affected the whole community. We’re looking at a mass funeral.”
He added that three of the deceased were cousins.
The Gauteng Provincial Government has expressed deep sorrow over the incident.
Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi, together with Gauteng Co-operative Governance and Traditional Affairs MEC Jacob Mamabolo and Tshwane Deputy Mayor Eugene Modise and Councillor Tshepo Kgatle visited the grieving families on Wednesday to offer condolences and support.
Modise also conveyed his condolences following the visit.
“They were taken from us far too soon in a tragic incident involving suspected carbon monoxide poisoning,” said Modise.
“On behalf of the City of Tshwane, I extend my deepest and most heartfelt condolences to the Matjane, Makgatho and Kgomontsho families, as well as the entire Ga-Rankuwa community.
“No parent should ever have to endure the pain of losing a child, and our thoughts and prayers remain with every family affected during this unimaginably difficult time.”
He concluded by saying, “May the souls of these five young boys rest in eternal peace, and may their families find strength, comfort and healing in the days ahead.”
Meanwhile, Thabiso Mosima, public relations officer for Royal Funerals, said the company would assist the bereaved families by providing free funeral services.
One of the victims will be buried on Friday while the remaining four will be laid to rest on Sunday with all funerals taking place in Ga-Rankuwa.
The provincial government noted that while investigations are ongoing, preliminary reports suggest the deaths may be linked to the use of a brazier (imbawula) inside a dwelling.
Residents are urged to exercise extreme caution when using braziers, paraffin stoves, generators and other heating devices during winter, warning that they can lead to burn injuries, carbon monoxide poisoning and death if used in poorly ventilated spaces or left unattended.
The provincial government added that it is working closely with the Tshwane Emergency Services, the Disaster Management Centre, SAPS and other stakeholders to support the affected families and monitor the situation.
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