- The death toll in the deadly Boksburg gas tanker explosion has risen to 34.
- Meanwhile, a memorial service has been held for the victims.
- The SA Council of Churches has called for justice for families.
The death toll in the Boksburg gas explosion has risen to 34.
This was announced by Health and Wellness MEC Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko at a memorial service for the victims of the explosion on Friday.
Nkomo-Ralehoko said that this number could still increase.
Ten health workers died and three remain in critical condition.
Nkomo-Ralehoko added that 50 patients had been transported to nearby hospitals, four emergency medical services personnel were still at the hospital and four others have since been discharged.
Health Minister Dr. Joe Phaahla said that while health workers were prepared to care for the injured after the blast, he did not anticipate the tragedy would be so extensive.
He added that it is necessary to train health personnel and emergency workers for this type of event.
READ | Boksburg explosion: woman discovers the body of a relative in pieces during the day of horror
Phaahla said that healthcare workers, who died, took years of skills and lost mentoring opportunities with them.
“Only the Almighty can tell us why, let’s leave the rest to the authorities,” he said. “They did not die in vain. Their contribution to the community and the country is appreciated.”
Ekurhuleni Mayor Tania Campbell paid tribute to the families and loved ones of the victims, saying the incident should not have happened.
Meanwhile, the SA Council of Churches (SACC) said healing for the families of those killed in the explosion on Christmas Eve would only be achieved through transparency and accountability. .
Speaking at a memorial service for the 34 victims, SACC Under-Secretary Rev Mzwandile Molo added that the loss was unbearable for the family of a boy who would never open his Christmas presents and those who must see gifts waiting under the tree that it will never open. .
“The journey to healing includes accountability and transparency.
“Moments like these cannot be left mere accidents. As SACC, we stand with the families and all South Africans. We were shocked that there seems to be no justice or accountability for a tragedy of this magnitude.”
“We are shocked that the driver has been let go because there is ‘no evidence’.
Members of the Gauteng Health Department Choir sing during a service for the victims of the Boksburg tanker explosion on Friday.
“The fireball isn’t evidence enough, the screaming…?”
Molo said the SACC had written to the National Prosecution Authority (NPA) with queries about how there may be no evidence and what needs to be done to collect evidence.
He added that the SACC wanted to know if a “proper” investigation had been carried out.
“We have written to NPA to clarify the processes and ask what it means that there is insufficient evidence.
A mourner holds his head in his hands during speeches at a service for the victims of the Boksburg tanker explosion.
“Are we back in the days of apartheid where people were murdered and the system of injustice announces that ‘there is no one to blame’?”
Molo said the SACC echoed the call that now was not the time for corruption and looting, but the time to come together.
A thunderous sermon by Anglican Bishop Charles May rallied the congregation in praise.
Speaking after the reverend, May also references apartheid and the fight song. Senzeni-na? (What have we done?) was sung again.
“It’s winter in the middle of summer. Every day, we hope that the death toll is not going up, but the number is going up.
“This brings us back to seeing the pain and suffering of people during the apartheid chant. Senzeni-na?
“Why did our loved ones have to die such painful deaths? Many of these answers we won’t get.”
