Province to hold memorial service for Boksburg blast victims

The Gauteng government will on Friday hold a memorial service for the 27 victims who died when a gas tanker truck exploded in Boksburg, Ekurhuleni last week.

Provincial health communications head Motaletale Modiba said the event will be held to pay tribute to those who perished.

“We are expecting families, NGOs, labour and other institutions to come through, including the different spheres of government.

“The memorial is held to reflect on what happened and also honour the lives that were lost, and pray for all those still in hospital,” he said on Thursday.

RELATED: Driver in Boksburg truck explosion may still face charges

The death toll of the catastrophic tanker explosion on Christmas Eve rose to 27 on Thursday. Many more remain in hospital after suffering moderate to serious injuries.

These include at least 13 health staff members who were injured from the blast. Only three are still alive, and in critical condition in hospital.

Two people are also still missing.

Meanwhile, legal experts said the 32-year-old truck driver could still face prosecution after he was set free on Wednesday.

“It is important to remember that the driver can be charged at a later stage once the investigation is concluded. People must also keep in mind that he was arrested largely on the basis that he was the driver and there was substantial public pressure for his arrest,” said policing expert Johan Burger.

He said it was also possible that the evidence could also lead to criminal charges against other persons.

“I’m certain the NPA has provided the police with guidelines as to what they require in order for them to decide whether to prosecute the driver and perhaps others as well, and on what charges.”

Police said he was released due to a lack of evidence, and that further investigations were needed into the matter.

Premier Panyaza Lesufi has been visiting the families of those affected by the tragedy.

The memorial service will be held at the Boksburg city hall at 9am.

NOW READ: Boksburg explosion death toll rises to 27