Shivan Cumberlege, aged 12, had allegedly committed suicide
The tragic circumstances surrounding the death of a 12-year-old boy, Shivan Cumberlege, in Riet River, Verulam, have prompted an investigation by the provincial department of social development.
Thuba Vilane, spokesperson for the Department of Social Development, confirmed that social workers from both the department and the Verulam Child Welfare, have intervened to provide psycho-social support services to Shivan's grieving family. The follow-up is essential to assess the parents' suitability to care for Shivan’s three younger siblings, Vilane said.
According to information provided by social welfare officials, the Verulam Child Welfare office has been tasked with monitoring the well-being and care of Shivan’s siblings in the aftermath of the incident.
A family decision was made for the biological parents to relocate to Waterloo, while the two younger siblings, aged two and five, will remain with relatives who were screened as foster parents by the welfare society.
