Infant Dies After Medical Emergency While Mother Waited at SASSA Bellville Office

A seven-month-old baby tragically died on Tuesday after becoming ill while his mother was waiting in line for social grant services at the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) office in Bellville, Cape Town.

SASSA in the Western Cape confirmed the incident occurred outside its Bellville office. According to SASSA, the mother alerted officials when her infant became critically ill while she was in the queue. Staff immediately contacted emergency medical services for assistance.

When paramedics were delayed, SASSA officials transported the mother and baby to a nearby clinic on Reeds Street, approximately 500 meters from the SASSA Bellville office. The baby was admitted to the emergency room but was later pronounced dead.

SASSA expressed its “deep sadness” over the incident and extended condolences to the grieving family. “We commend our officials for their prompt and compassionate response to the medical emergency,” the agency said in a statement, adding that it would cooperate fully with any necessary processes. SASSA reiterated its commitment to ensuring the safety and dignity of all beneficiaries.

Bellville police confirmed they attended to an incident at a medical facility following the death of the infant. Police spokesperson Ndakhe Gwala stated that the South African Police Service (SAPS) had no initial record of the incident at the SASSA office itself. According to police reports, the mother sought medical attention for her unwell baby, but the child died while she was waiting in the queue.

The circumstances leading to the infant’s sudden illness remain unclear.

The SASSA Bellville office is located at Mazzur Rd, Belgravia, Bellville, Cape Town. The office is open Monday through Friday from 7:30 AM to 4:00 PM. More information about SASSA Western Cape service offices can be found on the SASSA website.