Gauteng police are investigating the deaths of three brothers who died after allegedly consuming an energy drink given to them by their father. According to Gauteng MEC Panyaza Lesufi, the boys aged six, 13, and 16 were pupils at Ratanda Primary and Khanya Lesedi Secondary school, in Ratanda.
Lesufi said the brothers consumed the drink as they prepared for school. “Four of the said pupils consumed the energy drink after arriving at school on Thursday. Sadly, two of the pupils died shortly afterwards, after complaining of stomach pains, while one was rushed to the nearest hospital, but died on the way. The fourth sibling is in a critical condition at the hospital while the fifth, fortunately, did not consume the energy drink,” Lesufi said.
The MEC conveyed his deepest condolences to the to the family and most importantly to the mother of the deceased boys. “I further extend my condolences to friends, fellow pupils and teachers of the pupils, especially those who had witnessed these tragic incidents,” Lesufi added.
He said the cause of death is still unknown at this stage and law enforcement agencies are still investigating the circumstances surrounding the deaths of the three boys. The Gauteng Department of Education has dispatched its Psychosocial Support Unit to support the affected learners, teachers and members of the community who have been affected by the deaths of the pupils.
Lesufi is scheduled to meet with the family of the deceased and will also be visiting the affected schools on Friday.
Source: News24, IOL, Eyewitness News, ENCA, image from Twitter
