The tragic death of a scrap collector from Avalon in Mhluzi, Middelburg, has left his family and community in shock. Alfred Matlala (44) died instantly when a bomb he brought home exploded on Sunday afternoon, August 25.
He reportedly unknowingly picked up the bomb, which detonated while he was attempting to open it for scrap with the help of a friend. Fragments of his body were scattered across the area, leaving him dead on the spot and his friend seriously injured.
Alfred’s sister, Florence Matlala, revealed that her brother made a living by collecting scrap and had picked up the bomb at a site suspected to be an old military camp behind Avalon. She expressed her frustration with the government’s negligence in not demarcating the area or warning of any potential danger. “I believe that the authorities should take responsibility for my brother’s death,” she said.
Florence also expressed disappointment that no one from the government or local authorities had visited the family since the incident. “I feel we are being ignored because my brother was not famous or wealthy, but simply a scrap collector trying to make ends meet,” she said.
Emmanuel Kumbane, a community member, spoke out about the incident. “The community of Avalon is in great shock. It reminds us of the dangers that people like Alfred face in trying to make a living. Our kids are not safe as well,” he said.
Alfred’s friend, whose name has not been revealed, is currently in hospital with serious injuries.
Police have opened an inquiry to investigate the circumstances that led to the tragic incident involving the two individuals. “The investigation aims to shed light on the factors that brought them to that particular location,” said Mpumalanga police spokesperson, Colonel Donald Mdluli.
Acting provincial commissioner, Major General (Dr) Zeph Mkhwanazi, expressed deep sorrow over the unfortunate event. He also emphasized the importance of public safety, advising individuals to refrain from approaching or handling any suspicious items, as such actions could endanger their lives. “While safety remains our top priority during the course of our investigation, we urge parents to educate their children about the hazards of coming into contact with unidentified objects that may pose a threat. It is crucial that members of the public promptly report any suspicious findings to the authorities,” said the General.
