Experts warn against use of ‘highly toxic’ chemicals in homes as questions linger about Soweto deaths

Health minister Dr Aaron Motsoaledi’s recent announcement on the cause of the deaths of several Soweto children has brought renewed focus on two toxic and dangerous pesticides, one banned and the other used in agriculture, and their accessibility to the general market.Toxicologist Dr Gerhard Verdoorn has warned people against using some of the toxic products, usually in homes, as pesticides. Verdoorn said Aldicarb, which is commonly known as ‘ga le phirimi’ or Twostep, is easily available and lethal. Verdoorn said Terbufos cases were nothing new, citing previous cases he assisted…