News24 | Grade 1 pupil dies in Gauteng, allegedly after eating snacks from spaza shop

A Grade 1 pupil died in Gauteng on Tuesday, allegedly after consuming snacks from a spaza shop.

A Grade 1 pupil died in Gauteng on Tuesday, allegedly after consuming snacks from a spaza shop. 

Emergency services arrived at Mandlethu Primary School in Tsakane before 11:00, and the pupil was declared dead. 

The education department's spokesperson, Steve Mabona, said the girl's parents claimed she had eaten biscuits from a spaza shop.

Education MEC Matome Chiloane said: "We are deeply saddened by this unfortunate incident. We plead with parents to be vigilant concerning edible goods their children consume.

"We call upon law enforcement agencies and municipalities to be more stringent on compliance matters related to spaza shop products."

READ | Toxicology reports will reveal what is behind 300 alleged food poisoning cases - expert

Several similar incidents were reported in Gauteng last year.

News24 reported that pupils died allegedly after eating snacks and foods sold at spaza shops and taxi ranks. It included a Grade 3 pupil from Onkgopotse Tiro Primary School in Roodepoort, as well as Neo Khang and Leon Jele from Soweto. 

In the Eastern Cape, more than 60 pupils fell ill at Zingcuka Primary School in Qonce in a suspected food poisoning. In Komani, more than 140 pupils were hospitalised, allegedly after eating expired snacks from a spaza shop.  

We live in a world where facts and fiction get blurred

Who we choose to trust can have a profound impact on our lives. Join thousands of devoted South Africans who look to News24 to bring them news they can trust every day. As we celebrate 25 years, become a News24 subscriber as we strive to keep you informed, inspired and empowered.