The father of five children who allegedly poisoned his three kids sadly died in hospital on Sunday. The man died after consuming poison-infused drinks, which he also gave his kids. The father was rushed to the hospital under police guard, he was found unconscious at their home.
Preliminary reports alleged that the father gave all his five children energy drinks in the morning while they were preparing for school.
Four of the said learners consumed the energy drinks after arriving at school on Thursday, 26 May 2022
Gauteng Education Department spokesperson Steve Mabona
Father who poisoned kids faces attempted murder and murder
The father was reportedly admitted to the hospital after trying to take his own life on 26 May, the day after he poisoned his kids.
Police spokesperson, Colonel Athlenda Mathe said the father was facing charges of murder and attempted murder after the death of three boys. The kids are aged between 16, 13, and six from Ratanda Primary and Khanya Lesedi Secondary Schools in Ratanda near Heidelburg. The fourth boy, aged 10, is still in hospital and the fifth one did not drink the poisoned drink.
It is alleged that the father gave all his five children energy drinks on the morning of 26 May, while they were getting ready to go to school. Four of the said children consumed energy drinks after getting to school. Sadly, two of the said kids died shortly at the school after groaning of stomach pains. One of the kids was rushed to the hospital but died on the way.
Poisoned children laid to rest
The three children were buried on 4 June. The Education Department MEC Panyaza Lesufa pitied the family during their send-off. Speaking at the funeral, Lesufa conveyed his condolences to the family and the community at large. He said it was painful that they were gathered, not because of academic performance, but for a funeral of young kids.
Instead of discussing academic and athletic performance, we are comforting our small children to accept death
Panyaza Lesufa.
Lesufa said that it was difficult to admit that not even one of the boys are returning back. He further stated that it is extremely painful and difficult.