Two bereaving families were hit by funeral restrictions imposed by the government amidst the coronavirus outbreak this week.
The family of well-known TV producer and director, Muhammad Nagdee, whose body was found on Sunday near Cosmo City in Randburg and the Goodall siblings who were killed in a head on collision last week were affected by the new regulations.
Nagdee, 38, went missing on February 25.
As with Muslim burials, Nagdee had to be buried early this week. Because of his popularity in the media space, tributes poured in for him on social media platforms. But his family had to plead with the public not to attend the funeral in numbers.
Gauteng Premier David Makhura made the call to families earlier this week, saying those who want to conduct funerals or weddings must inform their nearest police station. This is line with efforts to contain the coronavirus, which has necessitated a National State of Disaster. President Cyril Ramaphosa said gatherings of more than 100 people are banned. To date, South Africa has 116 cases of the COVID-19 infection, of which the majority is in Gauteng.
“The Nagdee family appreciates the support and duas (prayers) of the community at large.Unfortunately, due to the current restrictions we can only allow 100 people to attend the Janaaza (funeral). Furthermore, only close family members will be permitted to be present at the residence of Moosa and Fatima Nagdee. We trust that the community understands this position and we appeal for your continued duas,” read their plea.
Nagdee, from Northclif, was last seen on the 25th of February when he failed to arrive at work.
His wife, Ziona Nagdee and two of her male friends were arrested in connection with his disappearance and murder.
The three children of Odile Goodall, Aiden (6), Lashay(10) and Learyn (11) Goodall, who attended Robertsham primary school, were killed last week when the car they were travelling in collided head on with a taxi on the Golden highway.
Family spokesman Noel Maart said in light of the Covid19 restrictions, the funeral will adhere to the strict regulations set out by the President. This includes a small crowd. No touching of family members, sanitising stations and strict protocol on entering venues. The funeral is scheduled to take place on Saturday.
