More than 115 children from a creche in Zithobeni, Bronkhorstspruit, have reportedly fallen ill with a stomach bug, raising concerns about the safety of drinking water in the area.
The principal of Themebalethu Place of Care alleges that the illnesses may be linked to untreated drinking water.
The incident has reportedly left parents worried about the safety of water supplied by tanker operators, with concerns growing over whether the water is safe for consumption.
These fears were heightened following Deputy President Paul Mashatile’s visit to Bronkhorstspruit on Monday. His visit came amid reports of gastrointestinal illnesses linked to suspected water contamination in the area.
During a media briefing, Mashatile raised concerns about the sources of water supplied by some private tanker operators and indicated that further intervention would follow.
The City of Tshwane has deployed 36 water tankers to help residents access safe drinking water amid the ongoing crisis.
However, the emergence of private tanker operators has raised questions about the origins and safety of the water they distribute.
Tshwane Mayor Nasiphi Moya said the Tshwane Metro Police Department had received the registration numbers of water tankers operating in the area to facilitate further investigations.
Authorities intend to establish where the tankers source their water and whether it has been tested to confirm that it is safe for consumption.