By: Nokulunga Lebambo
ENKAMBENI, MPUMALANGA – Three young initiates have died after a devastating fire broke out at an initiation school in the Enkambeni area near Numbi Gate in Mpumalanga.
Police confirmed that the victims, aged 13, 14 and 17, sustained severe burn injuries when a fire erupted inside the initiation school. Despite efforts to extinguish the blaze, the flames caused catastrophic injuries.
The three initiates were rushed to hospital for emergency medical treatment but later succumbed to their burn wounds.
The cause of the fire has not yet been established, and police have launched an investigation to determine the circumstances that led to the tragedy.
The incident has sent shockwaves through the local community, with many expressing grief over the loss of the three young lives.
The Mpumalanga Department of Cooperative Governance, Human Settlements and Traditional Affairs (CoGHSTA) has extended its heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased, their relatives, friends and the affected community.
“The Department wishes to extend its profound condolences to the families, relatives, friends and the affected community during this difficult time.”
The tragedy has once again placed the spotlight on safety at initiation schools, with renewed calls for strict compliance with safety regulations, improved fire safety measures and greater oversight to protect initiates.
Police investigations are continuing, and authorities are expected to provide further updates as more information becomes available.