Thembeka Shezi with her son, Mpilo Siyamthanda Shezi, whose death is being investigated after he allegedly consumed energy drinks bought from a Pakistani-owned shop in KwaMashu, north of Durban. Police have opened an inquest.
A medical practitioner has warned against the consumption of energy drinks by children and teenagers following the death of a 13-year-old pupil from KwaMashu.
Dr Nkosinathi Shabalala told Isolezwe that energy drinks are not recommended for anyone under the age of 18 because of their high caffeine and sugar content and the potential health risks associated with them.
The warning follows the death of Mpilo Siyamthanda Shezi, a Grade 7 pupil at Zamokuhle Primary School in KwaMashu's D Section. The teenager reportedly collapsed and died after consuming a 300ml bottle of Reboost energy drink purchased from a local shop.
According to information relayed to the family by friends, Mpilo had allegedly consumed another energy drink earlier the same day.
