Grade one learner dies after reported fireworks incident in Manenberg

An eight-year-old Grade 1 learner from Manenberg has died following a reported firecracker incident, prompting renewed concerns about fireworks safety ahead of Guy Fawkes, Cape {town} Etc reports.

The pupil at Manenberg Primary School, reportedly sustained injuries during a fireworks incident in Kei Street on Saturday night, 31 October. He died on Sunday morning, 1 November.

Western Cape police spokesperson Sergeant Wesley Twigg confirmed that Manenberg police had opened an inquest following the boy’s death. In a statement Twigg told Cape {town} Etc, ‘The circumstances surrounding his death are under investigation. A post-mortem will be conducted to determine the cause of death.’

Community organisation Fight Against Crime South Africa (FACSA) has called for increased enforcement against the illegal sale and use of fireworks, particularly the supply of firecrackers to children.

The incident comes as the City of Cape Town reports a sharp increase in fireworks complaints. According to its 24 October warning, complaints about illegal fireworks discharges rose from six in September to at least 49 during the first three weeks of October.

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Also read:

City of Cape Town issues fireworks warning ahead of Diwali and Guy Fawkes

**Picture: **Crudop MichaeLP / Pexels

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