Limpopo -
A 6-year-old boy fell into a pit toilet and died at a school in Limpopo on Monday.
The Grade R pupil at Mahlodumela Primary School in Chebeng village, outside Polokwane, had gone to relieve himself during break time and did not return to class.
Police spokesman Mothemane Malefo confirmed that an inquest docket had been opened.
Teachers started a frantic search after realising the boy was missing.
“Apparently, they were alerted by another child that (the 6-year-old) had fallen into the pit toilet,” said Malefo.
“Members of the community helped to take him out and we also arrived, but unfortunately it was (too) late,” said Malefo.
DA provincial leader Jacques Smalle described the incident as unacceptable. “This is the shocking reality faced by our most vulnerable learners during school time. I am heartbroken by this terrible incident,” said Smalle.
He has called for a full and expeditious inquiry into the boy’s death.
“There are serious questions about the role and responsibility of the teachers at this school, as well as the infrastructure at this school.”
The Star