TRAGEDY IN GA-RANKUWA AS FIVE BOYS DIE AFTER SLEEPING WITH MBAULA IN HOUSE

A devastating tragedy has left the Ga-Rankuwa community in mourning after five boys died after allegedly sleeping in a house with a burning mbawula (makeshift brazier) inside the room.

According to information circulating on local social media, the five boys went to sleep with the coal-burning brazier inside the house, apparently in an attempt to keep warm during the cold winter night.

Tragically, none of them woke up.

The boys’ lifeless bodies were reportedly discovered by a parent the following morning. Early reports suggest that they may have been overcome by fumes while sleeping, although the official cause of death has not yet been publicly confirmed by the relevant authorities.

The incident has sent shockwaves through Ga-Rankuwa, with community members expressing sadness and disbelief over the loss of five young lives in a single incident.

What was apparently intended as a way of keeping warm during a cold night ended in an unimaginable family and community tragedy.

Coal-burning braziers, commonly known as mbaulas or imbawula, are widely used for heating and cooking, particularly during winter. However, burning coal in an enclosed or poorly ventilated room can be extremely dangerous.

Carbon monoxide is a colourless and odourless gas produced when fuels such as coal do not burn completely. Because people cannot see or smell the gas, victims may be overcome without realising that they are in danger.

The tragedy comes as authorities and emergency services continue to warn communities against taking burning mbaulas, braai stands and other coal-burning devices into enclosed sleeping areas.

Residents are urged never to sleep in a closed room with a burning mbaula. Coal-burning devices should be used outdoors or in appropriately ventilated areas and should be completely extinguished before people go to sleep.

The reported deaths of the five boys are a painful reminder of the dangers many families face while trying to keep warm during winter.

The names gathered by Akasia Express on social media are – Bokang Makgatho, Lefa Matjane, Tshwarelo Matjane, Neo Matjane, Neo Kgomontsho (not accurate and stand to be corrected).

Further information, including the identities and ages of the victims and official findings on the cause of death, is still awaited from the relevant authorities.