Three die in suspected food poisoning incident at Ga-Maja funeral

Three people, including a 7-year-old girl, have died following a suspected food poisoning incident linked to a funeral held in Ga-Maja, Mmotong wa Bogobe, Limpopo, over the past weekend.

Police received reports that several community members who attended the funeral began experiencing symptoms such as vomiting and diarrhoea between 18 and 20 April 2026.

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A total of 42 people were treated at Lebowakgomo Hospital, with 38 admitted for further medical care.

Preliminary reports indicate that the young girl started showing symptoms on Sunday afternoon after consuming food brought from the funeral.

Investigations are ongoing, with police working to consolidate all related cases, including those reported in other policing areas.

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The Provincial Commissioner of Police in Limpopo, Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe, has conveyed her heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and affected communities.

“We extend our deepest sympathies to the families who have lost their loved ones in this tragic incident,” she said.

“We appeal to the community to remain calm and allow investigations, including post-mortem examinations, to determine the exact cause of death,” added Lieutenant General Hadebe.