A heartbreaking tragedy unfolded in Evaton, Gauteng, on 12 August 2024, when three young siblings—Moeketsi Mokhatla (9), Tshepiso Tsotetsi (9), and Rethabile Mokhatla (11)—were allegedly poisoned and killed while on their way to school.
According to early reports, the children encountered their stepfather on their regular morning walk to school. It is alleged that he handed them cookies, which they unknowingly accepted. A few hours later, their mother received a devastating phone call from the school. All three children had collapsed and were unconscious.
Rushing to the school in a panic, the mother arrived to find her worst nightmare realized—her children had all tragically passed away. The shock and pain of the incident have left the family and broader Evaton community in mourning, struggling to comprehend the horror of what took place.
Following the incident, a postmortem examination was conducted, which confirmed that the children had been poisoned. The precise substance used in the poisoning has not been publicly disclosed, but the investigation is ongoing. As of now, no arrests have been made, and the stepfather remains a person of interest in the case. Authorities have not released further details regarding possible motives or the status of their inquiries.
The deaths of Moeketsi, Tshepiso, and Rethabile have sparked widespread outrage and sorrow, particularly among advocacy groups focused on violence against children and women. The organisation Women For Change has publicly condemned the alleged killings and continues to demand justice for the three siblings. Using the hashtags #SayHerName, #UnburyTheTruth, and #EnoughSaid, they are calling on law enforcement to act swiftly and ensure accountability.
The incident has also reignited conversations around the safety of children and the importance of strengthening community awareness and protection systems. For many, this case is not just about one family’s loss but reflects a broader, painful reality in South Africa where cases of domestic abuse and violence continue to make headlines.
Community members have held vigils and left flowers, toys, and messages of love near the children’s school and home. The town of Evaton is united in grief, but also in a shared plea: that justice be served, and that these young lives not be forgotten.
As the investigation continues, many are left wondering how such a senseless act could occur and how to prevent similar tragedies in the future. The call for justice is not only for Moeketsi, Tshepiso, and Rethabile—but for every child in South Africa who deserves to live free from harm.
May their innocent souls rest in power.
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