Two young lovers whose bodies were discovered inside a tent at the Khawa Dune Challenge and Cultural Festival will be buried in Letlhakeng this weekend.
The families of the deceased have confirmed to The Voice that 26-year-old Kamogelo Moratiwa will be buried on Saturday, while her companion Bonako Tshegetsang, 26 will be laid to rest on Sunday.
In an interview, Tshegetsang’s grieving brother, Oratile Mothibakgomo, expressed profound sorrow over the sudden loss of a sibling.
For his part, Kamogelo’s uncle Letlanyang Moratiwa said the family remains in deep shock and disbelief. He noted that Kamogelo’s body is still awaiting post-mortem, with burial preparations underway for Saturday.
Both family representatives said they were unable to continue with the interviews due to the overwhelming grief they are experiencing. The families pleaded to be accorded space and time to mourn their loved ones.
The Voice reached out to Superintendent Kebadire Mmopi of Middlepits Police Station who revealed that preliminary investigations suggest the two may have used a braai stand to heat their tent.
“Authorities suspect that carbon monoxide emissions from the burning coal may have caused their untimely deaths,” said Mmopi.
Meanwhile, Kgosi Piet Manyoro of Khawa Village extended heartfelt condolences to the families, urging them to seek comfort and strength in their faith in God. He added that the incident has left the usually quiet village shaken.
In response to the tragedy, Account Director, Rebatho Tumagole of Inceptor Strategies and Consultancy, who are the event organizers said they are actively engaging with the bereaved families to determine appropriate ways to support them during this difficult time.
Tumagole reiterated that safety measures were in place, and precautionary measures and guidelines were communicated with revelers.
She expressed regret that despite their best efforts to keep everyone safe, the tragic incident still occurred.
“We are committed to increasing awareness and reinforcing safety protocols at future editions of the event,” Tumagole said.
