Following deaths of 5 children in Naledi, Lesufi says lone survivor 'critical' to probe

JOHANNESBURG - Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi said the lone survivor following the deaths of five children in Naledi, Soweto, was the missing piece in a puzzle.

The victims, aged between six and nine, died on Sunday after consuming snacks bought from a local spaza shop.

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While the exact cause of their deaths is yet to be determined, there are suspicions they may have ingested poison, with the community blaming store owners for the deaths.

One child is still receiving medical care following the ordeal.

Speaking on the sidelines of his visit to the grieving families on Tuesday, Lesufi said the surviving child’s account of the circumstances that led to the incident remains key.

"The one that is in hospital plays a very critical role in this investigation. That is why we are with the family, so that the child can survive and give us the last moments on this matter."