Johannesburg – More victims of the Boksburg tanker explosion that happened a week ago have succumbed to their burn wounds
On Friday, the death toll rose to 34.
At least 37 people were hospitalised after the explosion that damaged parts of the OR Tambo Memorial Hospital and destroyed a bridge and many houses in the area.
One person remains unaccounted for.
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A memorial service was held for the victims on Friday.
Speaking at the memorial service held at the Boksburg Civic Centre on Friday Health Minister Dr. Joe Phaahla said: “Today is a painful day for all of us, the families that have lost the loved ones, colleagues, the health sector, in particular, the Tambo Memorial Hospital healthcare workers and the broader community of South Africa”.
The minister added: “It is a day held in memory of our colleagues, friends, and loved ones who have perished in this unfortunate incident, that will forever serve as a scar in life and work experience in this hospital and health fraternity at large.
“We must express our sadness at this tragic incident and pass deepest condolences to the bereaved families, friends, and colleagues for this huge loss.”
On that fateful day – Christmas Eve – 27 people including 24 patients and 13 staff members who were situated in the OR Tambo Memorial Hospital’s A&E at the time of the LP gas tanker explosion sustained severe burns.
Many other people who were in the vicinity also suffered severe burns. Firemen, nurses, ordinary men, women, and children perished in the disaster.
The health minister drew particular attention to the healthcare workers who lost their lives in the explosion.
“We are remembering our colleagues in the healthcare working force for the sterling job they have done in the call of duty,” Dr. Phaahla said.
“Let’s take this opportunity to honour these fallen heroes and heroines.”
The deceased healthcare workers included:
- Kgothatso Magopane from Vosloorus,
- Winnie Hobyane – Ha Mhinga, Malamulele, Limpopo,
- Evelyn Majatladi – Ga Phaahla, Limpopo;
- Lovey Thobela – Kwalogedine Ntunda Trust, Mpumalanga;
- Peggy Maila – Seriting Ga Sekhukhune, Limpopo;
- Nompumelelo Shezi – Mndozo Farm, Newcastle;
- Suzan Maxakaza – Crystal Park – Benoni;
- Kwena Sekoba – Blouberg Bochum, Limpopo and
- Nthabiseng Modisakeng
The health minister said the government will ensure their proper send-off.
“Once again, to the families and colleagues and friends of the deceased and the healthcare fraternity as a whole, we pass our condolences,” said Dr. Phaahla.
“And hope that we will all find solace in the fact that these colleagues have served their cause and that we will continue to build their memory by serving our communities with distinction.
“On behalf of the entire health system, please accept our deepest sympathies, and your pain is our pain, your loss is our loss.
“We wish you and your family courage and peace during this time of mourning.
“Our hearts go out to you during this time of sorrow.”
Dr. Phaahla also revealed that the death toll has risen to 34.
MEMORIAL SERVICE: Families, state officials, church leaders, and community members at the memorial for victims of the Christmas Eve LP gas tanker explosion in Boksburg
Meanwhile, the Provincial Commissioner of the Police in Gauteng, Lieutenant General Elias Mawela said he was satisfied with the progress made in investigations regarding the tanker explosion.
The 32-year-old driver of the ill-fated LP gas tanker has since been released after charges that include culpable homicide were dropped owing to a lack of evidence.
However, Lt. Gen Mawela said: “I would like to assure the public that this investigation is receiving priority and I am satisfied with the progress that has been made by the Team so far”.
Lt. Gen Mawela added: “The Team continues to gather the necessary evidence and to engage the relevant stakeholders including the Department of Transport and Department of Health as well as the City of Ekurhuleni to strengthen the investigation.”
Six of the deceased are yet to be identified.
