Outrage in Khutsong After 2-Year-Old Toddler Drowns in Open Manhole

Gauteng, South Africa – October 6, 2025

Community anger is growing after two-year-old Ntsika Lithalam Nkatshumana drowned in an open manhole in Khutsong. The tragic accident took place near a reservoir on Sunday, September 28, 2025. Residents say the manhole had been left uncovered for nearly a decade, despite repeated complaints to local authorities.

The child’s distraught mother, Zimasa Nkatshumana, said she had left Ntsika briefly in the care of another young child while she attended a gathering nearby. She was later informed that Ntsika had fallen into the manhole. By the time she arrived, he had already been pulled out. He showed no signs of life.

According to neighbours and community activists, the manhole had long been a danger, and the site has been subject to multiple reports and pleas to the municipality to properly cover or fence it. “This kid’s death is due to negligence,” said an activist.

The ward councillor, Ernest Tibane, said he was unaware the lid had been missing and that the municipality is now investigating. It has emerged the municipality recently spent nearly R2 million on manhole covers.

Many locals are demanding accountability. Some have called for the municipality to not only cover the funeral costs but also take responsibility for the circumstances that led to this preventable tragedy.

A culpable homicide case has been opened with the police as the community demands justice.