PORT ELIZABETH - 4 CHILDREN INCLUDING TODDLER DIE AFTER CONSUMING TOXIC SUBSTANCE AT MOTHERWELL DUMP

Four children aged between three and 11 have died after consuming a toxic substance at a dumping site in Unit 30 in Motherwell, Port Elizabeth.

Police spokesperson, Captain Andre' Beetge, said that a seven-year-old child survived.

He said staff at the Motherwell Health Centre had alerted police to the incident early on Sunday evening.

"The three-year-old male Alunamda Mqawu, passed away on arrival at the health centre, while his sister, 10-year-old Zintle Mqawu, and another pair of siblings, five-year-old Alizwa Rhwayibana and his sister 11-year-old Asive Rhwayibana, all died while receiving treatment at the health centre," he said.

Beetge said a seven-year-old boy, Asiphile Grootboom, was brought in later on Sunday afternoon with similar symptoms but survived.

"All the children were apparently playing close to their homes and ate some food that they found between the rubble," Beetge said.

He said post mortem examinations will determine the exact cause of death.

Police opened an inquest docket but were also appealing to the public who may have information pertinent to the investigation to contact Motherwell police.

Beetge said police are appealing to the public not to consume anything found at rubbish dump sites.

via - ALGOAFM