'No arrests yet' as probe into child deaths linked to unsafe food from spaza shops continues

Acting Police Minister Firoz Cachalia stated that no arrests or prosecutions have been made in connection with the deaths of children suspected of having consumed unsafe food from spaza shops. The ongoing probe into these incidents continues, with multiple inquest dockets still under investigation. The inquiry follows concerns raised by MK Party MP Hazel Mbele regarding the police service's response to cases where children allegedly died due to consumption of unhygienic food items sold by spaza shops. Cachalia explained that inquests were initiated between April 2025 and December 2025 to determine the causes of death and assess potential criminal liability. He emphasized that the process requires thorough investigation before any legal action can be taken. According to Cachalia, the inquest process aims to ascertain whether any individual could be held legally responsible for the fatalities. He noted that the determination of criminal liability hinges on the results of the investigations and the rulings of the Inquest Court. As of now, no arrests have been made, no individuals have been charged, and no prosecutions have begun in relation to these matters. The minister also highlighted that updates on the status of investigations and inquest proceedings are shared through official channels once they do not interfere with ongoing legal processes. This approach ensures transparency while maintaining the integrity of the investigative work. Two years prior, there was a nationwide outcry following reports of children falling ill and even dying after consuming food from spaza shops operated primarily by foreign nationals. The incident prompted a temporary shutdown of several such establishments. In September 2024, President Cyril Ramaphosa announced that 890 cases of foodborne illnesses had been reported across all provinces, with Gauteng and KwaZulu-Natal experiencing the highest numbers. Limpopo, Free State, and Mpumalanga also recorded numerous incidents. Ramaphosa revealed that at least 22 children had lost their lives due to these illnesses. The tragic outcomes spurred the government to launch a campaign for the mandatory registration of all spaza shops and other food-handling facilities within local municipalities. Those failing to meet health standards were ordered to close. Multidisciplinary teams were deployed to inspect food-related businesses, including manufacturers, distributors, wholesalers, and retailers. Law enforcement agencies, including the South African Police Service, were tasked with investigating, arresting, and prosecuting violators. When asked whether non-compliant spaza shops had been closed based on health risk assessments, Cachalia clarified that the regulation, closure, and reopening of such establishments fall under the jurisdiction of health and municipal authorities. He reiterated that the SAPS supports coordinated government efforts to prevent future occurrences and ensure adherence to legal frameworks. These initiatives include regular attendance at National Core Command Group meetings, which involve key departments and stakeholders focused on mitigating foodborne illnesses and associated public health threats. Cachalia affirmed that the SAPS continues to examine all reported cases and will take necessary actions if evidence suggests criminal behavior. All individuals, regardless of nationality, are bound by South African law and will face consequences if sufficient proof supports criminal prosecution. The ongoing efforts aim to safeguard public health and hold accountable those responsible for endangering community well-being.