No prosecutions yet for child deaths linked to spaza shop food poisoning incidents
via The Citizen2 min read
Almost 18 months after food poisoning incidents led to the deaths of over 20 children, no one has been held accountable. Authorities attributed the deaths to organophosphates and poor food storage at spaza shops. While four individuals were arrested in October 2024, Minister of Health Aaron Motsoaledi clarified these arrests were for illegal chemical possession, not directly for the food poisoning. The Ministry of Police, in response to a parliamentary question from uMkhonto weSizwe Party's Htombenhle Mbele, stated that inquest dockets were opened for all 2024 deaths and similar child deaths since, and all remain under investigation. The ministry explained that an inquest court must determine responsibility before charges can be laid. Mbele urged the ministry to expedite investigations to reassure the public and ensure accountability. The ministry affirmed that progress would be communicated in collaboration with Justice, Crime Prevention and Security cluster partners, aiming to keep communities informed and uphold justice.
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