KwaZulu-Natal police have arrested the owner of a tuck shop in eSikhawini after it was discovered that he was allegedly in the country illegally, following the death of a young child who reportedly became ill after consuming snacks purchased from the store.
Two-year-old Anele Tshabalala died on Sunday, shortly after eating chips bought from a neighbourhood tuck shop, an incident that has sparked outrage and concern within the community.
According to Anele's family, the toddler began showing signs of distress about an hour after eating the snack. Family members said she complained of severe stomach pains before her condition rapidly worsened.
Relatives rushed her to a local clinic for medical attention, but she was declared dead on arrival.
A family member described the child's final moments, saying they noticed her stomach spasming and attempted to assist her before she became unresponsive.
The grieving family said the tragedy has left them devastated, particularly as Anele had not been suffering from any known illness.
The family has also appealed for support, saying they are facing financial difficulties and uncertainty as they prepare to bury their daughter.
Police have since opened an inquest docket and launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the child's death.
KwaZulu-Natal police spokesperson Colonel Robert Netshiunda said investigators are awaiting the outcome of a post-mortem examination before determining the next course of action.
"Police in Esikhaleni have opened an inquest docket following an incident where a young child was rushed to hospital, where she later died allegedly after consuming snacks. Investigations into the circumstances surrounding the death are underway," said Netshiunda.
He confirmed that the owner of the shop where the snacks were allegedly purchased was arrested after being found to be in the country illegally.
"The post-mortem results will determine the police's next action," he added.
The incident has reignited concerns about food safety and the operation of informal food outlets, particularly amid ongoing scrutiny of some spaza shops across the country.
The tragedy has also heightened tensions within the community, with some local organisations renewing calls for stronger action against undocumented foreign nationals operating businesses in the area.
In 2024, government introduced a national registration process for informal businesses following a series of suspected food poisoning incidents that claimed the lives of at least 20 people, many of them children.
As investigations continue, Anele's family is awaiting answers about what caused her death. The young girl is expected to be laid to rest this weekend.