Shack fire in eMbalenhle claims toddler (2)

A shack fire in Ext 14, eMbalenhle, claimed the life of two-year-old Ayabonga Mtsweni on the evening of May 5.

According to Lebohang Sikhosana, Ayabonga’s aunt, the toddler had been left in her care as Ayabonga’s mother, Millicent Ngwenya, went to the main house to prepare food after visiting the toddler’s father.

“Ayabonga told me she wanted to sleep, so I put her on the bed,” Sikhosana told Ridge Times.

“I continued taking care of my child. While she was sleeping, I went to the main house to check if her mother was done preparing food.

“When I returned less than five minutes later, the shack was already on fire. I screamed for help, and family members, including Ayabonga’s mother, rushed to help extinguish the fire.”

Neighbours joined the rescue efforts. Ayabonga’s mother sustained injuries in the chaos, nearly breaking her hand while trying to save her child.

“We still don’t know what caused the fire because there was no unattended stove or candle. Our family is confused and heartbroken,” Sikhosana added.

Emergency services, including the Govan Mbeki Fire Department, responded and worked to put out the blaze.
Despite their efforts, Ayabonga was declared dead at the scene.

Constable Busi Mthethwa, the spokesperson for the eMbalenhle SAPS, confirmed that an inquest docket was opened.

“When the police arrived, Ngwenya showed them the body of her deceased child inside the burnt shack. The child was burnt beyond recognition,” Mthethwa said.

All relevant emergency teams, forensic investigators and a police K9 Unit were called to the scene to assist in the investigation.