NELSPRUIT – The Provincial Commissioner of the South African Police Service in Mpumalanga, Lieutenant General Semakaleng Manamela has sent condolences, on behalf of Police Management in the province to families of the two children who lost their lives after being struck by lightning. The shocking incident is said to have occurred on Saturday, 20 November 2021 at Sheepmoor in the Gert Sibande District.

According to information, on the sad day, a group of young boys were playing soccer around 17h00 at a local sports ground when the rain started and the children reportedly went for cover under a tree nearby. Unfortunately nine of the children were struck by lightning whereby two lost their lives meanwhile seven were taken to hospital for medical treatment. An inquest case is being investigated by the police at Sheepmoor.

The Provincial Commissioner has further wished speedy recovery to the injured kids. The General also urged parents to be vigilant and warn their children on the dangers of lightning, and to avoid tall, isolated objects or even to stand near trees during stormy weather or rain.

Source: South African Police Service