Three confirmed dead after suspected food poisoning at Limpopo funeral

Authorities investigate alleged contamination incident that left dozens hospitalised after weekend gathering at Mmotong-wa-Bogobe village.

Three people, including a seven-year-old girl, have died following suspected food poisoning at a funeral gathering in Mmotong-wa-Bogobe village outside Polokwane, Limpopo officials confirmed.²³ Initial reports suggested six deaths, but provincial government and police records now indicate three fatalities linked to the incident.³

More than 70 people sought medical treatment after consuming food at the funeral service over the weekend, with attendees experiencing vomiting and diarrhoea between 18 and 20 April.¹² Police spokesperson Brigadier Hlulani Mashaba said 42 people sought treatment at Lebowakgomo Hospital, where 38 were admitted for further care.² Ward councillor Jacob Ntlemo said those who showed improvement were subsequently discharged.¹

Limpopo Premier Phophi Ramathuba directed health authorities to expedite tests into the alleged contamination.³ She said forensic pathology teams had begun collecting stomach contents for toxicology testing, whilst samples from hospitalised patients were sent to laboratories for analysis.³ Now, where we are sitting, we can indicate to you that forensic pathology has started with their work to collect the stomach contents also for chemistry, so that we can test for any toxicology, Ramathuba told journalists during a hospital visit.³

Ramathuba, accompanied by Health MEC Dieketseng Mashego and Transport MEC Violet Mathye, visited patients still receiving treatment at Lebowakgomo Hospital.³ Police have opened inquest dockets and are consolidating related cases, including those reported in other areas.²

Limpopo police commissioner Thembi Hadebe urged the community to remain calm whilst investigations continue.² We extend our deepest sympathies to the families who have lost their loved ones during this tragic incident. We appeal to the community to remain calm and allow the investigation to unfold, including the post-mortem processes, which will determine the exact cause of death, Hadebe said.²