‘Food poisoning’ kills 2 boys

RUSTENBURG: Social workers are providing trauma and bereavement counselling to the Serekiso family, who lost two boys in Makgobistad outside Mahikeng, acting North West Social Development MEC Fenny Gaolaolwe said yesterday.

Kitso Serekiso, 10, and Kgotla Tsekiso, 12, died, apparently after suffering from food poisoning.

They apparently fell sick after eating some potato chips and drinking tap water from a 25-litre container at home.

A third child, a 15-yearold, was recuperating at Bophelong Provincial Hospital in Mahikeng.

“It is a tragedy to lose such young lives.

“To the family I know that words, however gentle they are, cannot ease or take your loss away.

“I hope that our prayers will comfort you during this difficult time,” said Gaolaolwe, conveying her condolences to the family.

Social workers would also provide counselling to the deceased school mates at Makgobi Primary School.

The social workers would also compile a home circumstance report at their earliest convenience to determine the needs of the family.

The department would offer social relief of distress to the deceased family in the form of grocery hampers and continue with bereavement counselling beyond the funeral.

On Wednesday, North West premier Supra Mahumapelo expressed sadness over the death of the two boys.

“We send our heartfelt condolences to the family affected by this tragedy.

“We will do whatever we can from our side to provide support to the family during this difficult time,” said Mahumapelo.