The Verulam community gathered in mourning on Saturday to bid farewell to 12-year-old Shivan Cumberlege, whose tragic death has sparked a child neglect investigation and an outpouring of grief across the area.
Shivan, a Grade 3 learner at Parkgate Primary School, was found dead at his home on Neptune Drive in Riet River on Thursday, 14 May. His funeral service was held at Range River Ranch in Oakford, Verulam, where hundreds of mourners gathered to pay their respects.
At the service, Shivan was remembered as a kind-hearted and helpful child with a gentle spirit.
The principal of Parkgate Primary School delivered an emotional tribute, describing Shivan as a child who brought hope and promise to the school community.
She said his death had left hearts heavy with grief and described the loss as devastating for both the family and the broader community.
Co-leader of Bible Light Ministries, Pastor Gregory Moonsamy, also addressed mourners, urging parents and guardians to remain actively involved in their children’s emotional wellbeing and daily lives.
“Today, I want to encourage that we do the best that we can for our children while we can, and God will help us,” he said.
Following the incident, the Department of Social Development (DSD) and Verulam Child Welfare launched an investigation into allegations of severe neglect.
DSD spokesperson Thuba Vilane confirmed that social workers visited the family home shortly after the incident and are conducting a comprehensive risk assessment concerning the safety and wellbeing of the surviving siblings, who remain in the care of their parents.
A standard risk assessment is conducted to determine whether minors within a household may face immediate danger or require urgent intervention. Authorities may implement support services or alternative care measures if evidence of ongoing neglect is uncovered.
At this stage, officials have not disclosed the findings of the initial home visit or indicated what further steps may follow.
Reaction Unit South Africa (Rusa) was among the first responders at the scene.
Rusa spokesperson Prem Balram said information gathered from residents alleged that the child had been left to care for an infant sibling after his mother reportedly failed to return home for two days while attending prayer meetings.
According to Balram, first responders found an infant inside the home.
He added that neighbours alleged the boy had been collecting and selling bottles to buy food for his younger sibling.
“The boy was last seen alive earlier that morning when his father left for work. He had also spoken telephonically with his father shortly before he was discovered,” Balram said.
