The community of Ekurhuleni gathered in sorrow as siblings Hlompho Mofokeng and Khethelo Zulu were laid to rest. Their young lives were cut short in a devastating accident involving their school transport and a vehicle driven by an Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Police Department (EMPD) officer.

The fatal crash occurred on Monday, March 10, on the N12 highway near the Putfontein off-ramp in Daveyton. The Toyota Verso transporting the children collided with the officer’s car, resulting in multiple casualties. Among those who perished were Kgosi Malatjie and Lubanzi Nhlapo, two other pupils from the same transport.

On March 16, family, friends, and members of the community filled the Mpengesi Primary School Hall in Etwatwa to bid farewell to the siblings. The emotional service was a testament to the love and impact the two boys had on those around them.

Speakers at the funeral described Hlompho and Khethelo as affectionate and full of life. Their grandfather, Lucas Zulu, recalled their fondness for speaking English, often reminding them of their Nguni roots.

“The siblings loved each other deeply, and I loved them dearly. Their passing has left a void in our hearts,” he said, struggling to hold back tears.

Zulu shared his last memory of the boys before they left for school that fateful morning.

“They said, ‘Goodbye, Mkhulu, we are going to school.’ Little did I know it would be the last time I’d hear their voices. Hours later, we received the devastating news. At first, we thought only one had passed away, but later, we learned both were gone,” he said.

Family neighbor William Beqezi shared fond memories of the boys’ playful nature.

“They once stood near my bus, excitedly showing me a drawing of a train. Before I could respond, they ran off, pretending the train had left. Their energy and joy will be deeply missed,” Beqezi said.

Giselle Mynhardt, principal of Tom Newby Primary School, expressed her sorrow at the loss of two young learners.

“Hlompho, who was in Grade 3, and Khethelo, a Grade 1 student, were bright and full of potential. Telling their classmates about their passing was heartbreaking,” she said.

The school held multiple memorial services in their honor. Tania Landers, Head of Department, remembered Hlompho’s vibrant spirit.

“He brought light to every school day. Both boys were special members of our school family,” Landers said.

Their relative, Nocwaka Sigenu, reflected on the boys’ ambitions.

“Hlompho dreamed of becoming a pilot or a geologist, while Khethelo wanted to be a doctor. We called him ‘Dr. Khethelo.’ It’s heartbreaking that their dreams were taken away so soon,” Sigenu shared.