Speaking to OFM News on the outskirts of Steynsrus, where the Provincial Government went to engage with families of the eight victims of the drowning tragedy following floods, Mashinini said safety and security across the province is a huge concern. He highlighted that cases of farm attacks and murders are a great concern, which his department is paying attention to.

He says they are working on forging closer working ties with farming communities and those in rural areas to prioritise their security.

Mashinini, as well as Free State premier Sisi Ntombela and his fellow MEC William Bulwane, extended his condolences to the families of the seven children and driver who died on Sunday when the car they were travelling in got swept away by floods on the Somerset East farm outside Steynsrus.

The seven children - aged between 4 and 13 years of age - were in the car with three adults, of whom only two survived.  

The children have been identified as Thapelo Tekanya, a 4-year-old boy, Ntaoleng Mpeko, a 13-year-old girl, Relebohile Mpeko, a 9-year-old girl, Mojalefa Mosibi, a 12-year-old boy, Bokamoso Maphakisa, an 8-year-old boy, Hopolang Monyatsi, a 6-year-old girl and Karabo Kok, a 7-year-old boy, whose body was only discovered a day later.

OFM News