The devastating incident is reported to have occurred on the night of 5 July 2026, when the boys decided to sleep together in one room to keep warm as temperatures dropped.
A Tragic Winter Night
According to reports, the boys lit a mbaula, a traditional metal brazier filled with burning charcoal or coals, inside the room before going to bed. The room was reportedly closed to keep the warmth inside during the freezing winter night.
Sadly, what was meant to protect them from the cold is believed to have led to an unimaginable tragedy.
As the charcoal continued burning inside the poorly ventilated room, it is believed to have released carbon monoxide, a poisonous gas that has no colour, smell or taste. Because the gas cannot be detected by human senses, the boys were unaware of the danger while they slept.
The following morning, one of the parents reportedly went to wake the children and made the devastating discovery that all five boys had died.
The Boys Remembered
The boys have been identified as:
Neo Kgomontsho
Bokang Makgatho
Neo Matjane (also known as Slime Bouyy'o)
Lefa Matjane
Tshwarelo Matjane
Reports indicate that some of the boys were brothers or cousins, making the tragedy even more painful for the affected families.
Their sudden passing has left relatives, friends, neighbours and classmates heartbroken as they struggle to come to terms with the unimaginable loss.
Police Investigation Underway
Authorities have reportedly opened an inquest docket to establish the exact circumstances surrounding the deaths.
At this stage, there is no indication of foul play, and the incident is being treated as a tragic accident. Investigators are expected to determine the official cause of death as part of the ongoing investigation.
Understanding Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
Carbon monoxide is one of the most dangerous gases because it cannot be seen, smelled or tasted. It is produced when fuels such as charcoal, coal, wood or gas burn without enough oxygen.
When a brazier or charcoal fire is used inside a closed room, the gas can quickly build up to dangerous levels.
People exposed to carbon monoxide may initially experience headaches, dizziness, weakness, nausea and extreme tiredness. In high concentrations, victims can lose consciousness while sleeping and may never wake up.
Because the symptoms often resemble ordinary fatigue, many people do not realise they are in danger until it is too late.
A Reminder to Stay Safe This Winter
As winter continues across South Africa, safety experts continue to warn against using charcoal braziers, coal stoves or open flames inside closed rooms, garages or other poorly ventilated spaces.
To reduce the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning:
Never sleep in a room where a charcoal brazier or burning coals are still burning.
Ensure there is adequate ventilation whenever using heating devices.
Extinguish braziers completely before going to bed.
Consider safer heating alternatives where possible.
Learn to recognise the early signs of carbon monoxide poisoning and seek immediate medical help if exposure is suspected.
These simple precautions can help prevent similar tragedies.
A Community in Mourning
The loss of five young lives has deeply affected the Ga-Rankuwa community. Friends, neighbours and loved ones continue to express their grief while offering support to the bereaved families during this incredibly difficult time.
Many people have also used this heartbreaking incident to remind others about the hidden dangers of using charcoal braziers indoors during winter.
While nothing can erase the pain experienced by the families, many hope that greater awareness about carbon monoxide poisoning will help save lives in the future.
Our heartfelt condolences go to the families, friends, classmates and everyone affected by this devastating tragedy.
May Neo Kgomontsho, Bokang Makgatho, Neo Matjane, Lefa Matjane and Tshwarelo Matjane rest in eternal peace.
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