3 learners from Evaton Primary School die from suspected poisoning by their step-father

Gauteng police are investigating the tragic deaths of three siblings who fell ill at Evaton Primary School in Sebokeng on Monday.

According to the Gauteng Department of Education, the siblings, who were in Grades 3, 4, and 5, were taken to a nearby medical facility where they were pronounced dead.

“It is with a heavy that we inform you of the passing of 3 of our learners this morning.

1. Tshepiso Tsotetsi – Grade 3B

2. Moeketsi Mokhatla – Grade 4D

3. Rethabile Mokhatla – Grade 5B,” said Principal Dingane in a letter to parents.

Following the incident, learners were released early.

The incident reportedly began around 8 a.m. when a Grade 4 teacher brought a sick boy to the school’s sick bay. Despite receiving immediate attention, the boy remained unresponsive, prompting staff to quickly call emergency services and notify the child’s mother.

Shortly after, the boy’s sibling arrived at the sick bay and informed the staff that they had eaten pap, milk, and biscuits at home earlier that morning. The department reported that the girl then lost consciousness.

A third sibling, a Grade 5 girl, was also found unresponsive. All three children were rushed to a local clinic but were sadly declared dead upon arrival.

It is alleged that their step-father, Thapelo Moleko, gave them food laced with poison before the children went to school.

Matome Chiloane, Gauteng’s MEC for Education, Sport, Arts, Culture & Recreation, expressed deep sorrow over the heartbreaking loss of the learners.

 

Must read: 5-year-old boy stabbed to death by his nanny’s brother