DA calls for investigation into the drowning of a nine-year-old
A nine-year-old girl has drowned at an abandoned mining site near Boiketlong, prompting the DA to demand accountability and an independent investigation.
The DA is calling for accountability following a tragic drowning incident that claimed the life of nine-year-old Rethabile Mokgokolo. The incident happened at an abandoned mining site near Boiketlong.
DA shadow MMC for Public Works and Emfuleni Central Constituency Political Head, Dady Mollo, says the devastating incident brings into sharp focus the grave dangers posed by unregulated and poorly managed mining activities within communities.
In 2024, Mollo raised questions regarding the mining activities through a list of questions he submitted to the office of the Emfuleni Local Municipality Speaker.
“The DA has repeatedly raised concerns about the mining operations in this area and the serious risks they present to residents, particularly vulnerable children.”
Mollo, together with the DA Ward 36 allocated councillor, Thandi Mthimkhulu, previously conducted an oversight. Mollo states that serious safety concerns were identified and raised with the relevant municipal authorities.
“Emfuleni Local Municipality was warned at an early stage about the dangers associated with these mining activities and the severe consequences that could follow if urgent intervention was not undertaken.”
“We call for an urgent and independent investigation into the circumstances surrounding this tragedy. We also want immediate action to secure, fence off, and rehabilitate all dangerous and abandoned mining sites in the area.”
De Deur police spokesperson Constable Mampho Mahlomola has since confirmed the drowning incident.
“The police attached to De Deur SAPS are investigating an inquest after a minor drowned next to Total Garage opposite Boiketlong. It is alleged that the deceased was swimming with her female friends, aged 11 and 12, at the quarry, which is full of water.”
“The deceased drowned in the water, and when the two friends realised what was happening, they fled the scene to ask for help.”
Mahlomola states that the deceased was declared dead on the scene and subsequently identified by her family. Investigations surrounding the incident are ongoing.
