The manager of the Ayoba Discount Supermarket in Endulwini Section, Thembisa, has spoken out after the death of two-year-old Siphokazi Mtshweni.
The toddler allegedly died after eating canned fish that might have been tainted with poison.
The child’s grandfather, who also ate the fish, was hospitalised in a serious condition.
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The shop’s manager, Francisco Woldehesh, an Ethiopian national who has been part of the Thembisa community for 14 years, extended his condolences and pledged to help the grieving family with funeral arrangements.
The tragedy unfolded when Siphokazi’s grandmother, Ntombizodwa Mtshweni, bought a can of fish from the Ayoba Supermarket.
She cooked the fish for her husband and grandchild, but after eating the leftovers the next day, they both fell ill.
Sadly, the toddler died shortly afterwards.
“I bought the tinned fish from this store and cooked it for my husband. He ate it without any problems on the first day. He warmed it up the next day and shared it with our grandchild.
“Later, they both became ill, and my grandchild didn’t survive. My husband is still fighting for his life in the hospital.”
Health officials and law enforcement inspectors visited the shop to investigate the matter.
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According to preliminary reports, the canned fish was scanned and appeared authentic, with no immediate signs of contamination.
However, early test results suggest the possibility of food poisoning, leaving the community confused and searching for answers about what caused the toddler’s death.
Woldehesh was shocked by the news and co-operated fully with authorities.
“I received a call informing me the police were looking for me. I complied and worked with them. They tested the tinned food and found nothing wrong with the can.
“The community wanted me to close the shop, but after the investigation, I was told to continue trading because they found no fault with the product,” Woldehesh explained.
Despite the calls to close his shop, Woldehesh expressed his commitment to helping the family during this difficult time.
He has pledged to support them with the funeral arrangements and is open to working more closely with the community to ensure the sale of food that caters to children and the elderly.
The incident has left the community mourning and searching for answers while health officials continue investigating the cause of the illness.
