Tragedy struck in Welkom, Free State, on Sunday, 10 November, when two boys drowned in an abandoned construction sewer hole filled with rainwater. Liyiso Mkhekwa (11) and Rapelang Sejentu (10) were walking with friends near Setshabelo Primary School when they tragically fell into the open hole. The other two boys ran to alert their parents and residents, who tried to rescue the victims but were unsuccessful. Emergency medical personnel confirmed the boys’ deaths at the scene.
Residents are demanding accountability from the Matjhabeng Municipality and the construction company responsible, arguing that the large holes, left uncovered since June 2024, posed a serious danger. “The municipality and the construction company should have secured these holes to prevent such a tragedy,” said local resident Thebe Ntsane. “This is reckless behavior, and both must take full responsibility, including compensating the families.”
The boys’ families have requested privacy to mourn, while Matjhabeng municipal spokesman Tshediso Tlali stated that the municipality would issue an official statement after meeting with the families. For now, further comments on the incident are pending.
