A 12-year-old boy and uncle electrocuted while picking avocados

A 12-year-old boy was killed when he used a steel pipe with a wire to harvest the avocados from a tree when he made contact with an electricity overhead line and was electrocuted.

THE 12-YEAR-OLD BOY AND HIS UNCLE WERE DECLARED DEAD ON THE SCENE

The boy’s uncle was subsequently electrocuted when he tried to assist him. Paramedics and the police declared both dead on the scene.

ALSO READ: Tree fell over and crushed taxi in JHB, driver seriously injured

According to a statement from Eskom this happened on Saturday, 14 August 2021 in Ekangala in Gauteng.

“We are saddened by the loss of life, particularly in this manner. We consistently try to prevent such incidents by educating members of the public on electricity safety.

“It is even more regretful that this incident happens during Eskom’s National Electricity Safety Month where we raise awareness about the safe use of electricity and encourage families and communities to stop unsafe electricity practices,” said Kith Maitisa, SHEQS Manager of Eskom in Gauteng.”

Maitisa said trees growing under power lines could be fatally dangerous.

“We wish to discourage communities from planting trees under power lines and to report to us if they see any trees touching the electricity lines.”

The matter is under investigation by Eskom and the South African Police Service (SAPS).

Members of the public are further encouraged to report any persons interfering with the electricity network and those conducting any illegal activities to the Eskom Crime Line on 0800 11 27 22.

ALSO READ: Elderly woman trapped between boundary wall and home survives cold night