Key Takeaways
- Gcina Dhladhla, a 29‑year‑old Cartrack employee, was found dead inside a toilet cubicle at the company’s Rosebank offices on Saturday.
- Cartrack SA CEO Joshua Victor broke his silence, stating the firm is cooperating with investigators and the family to establish the facts.
- A joint statement released by Cartrack and Dhladhla’s family emphasized a shared desire for a transparent, evidence‑based investigation and expressed gratitude for public support.
- The ANC Youth League (ANCYL) in Gauteng led a protest demanding accountability, during which allegations surfaced that employees were prevented from leaving the building while the picket proceeded.
- Despite the tension, the family and company reported a constructive meeting, and Cartrack has been invited to attend Dhladhla’s funeral on June 13.
Incident Overview
Gcina Dhladhla, a 29‑year‑old member of Cartrack’s staff, was discovered deceased inside a toilet cubicle at the firm’s Rosebank offices on Saturday. Initial reports indicated that she had informed a supervisor she was feeling unwell but was instructed to continue working. The circumstances surrounding her death have not yet been clarified, prompting widespread concern and calls for a thorough investigation. The incident quickly gained national attention, with many questioning workplace safety and the company’s duty of care toward its employees.
CEO’s Response
Cartrack SA CEO Joshua Victor broke his silence on the tragedy, expressing deep sorrow over the loss of a valued colleague. In a public statement, Victor affirmed that the company is fully cooperating with law‑enforcement agencies, the Department of Labour, and independent investigators to uncover every fact related to Dhladhla’s death. He emphasized Cartrack’s commitment to supporting the bereaved family and ensuring that the appropriate processes are followed without prejudice or premature conclusions.
Joint Statement with Family
On Thursday, Cartrack and Dhladhla’s family issued a joint statement that highlighted their shared goal of establishing the facts through a careful, fair, and evidence‑based process. The statement noted that the family had been given time and space to grieve, and that a meeting between family representatives and Cartrack officials had taken place earlier that day. Both parties described the meeting as emotional yet constructive, providing an opportunity to ask questions, share information, and begin to understand the events leading to the tragedy.
Protest Details
The ANC Youth League (ANCYL) in Gauteng organized a protest outside Cartrack’s Rosebank offices on Thursday, demanding accountability for Dhladhla’s death. Demonstrators accused the company of misrepresenting what had occurred and raised broader concerns about working conditions within the firm. The protest attracted a heavy security presence, including private security personnel, police, and emergency services, as tensions rose outside the building. Protesters submitted a memorandum of demands to management and gave Cartrack a 14‑day window to respond to their concerns.
Allegations of Lockdown
During the protest, several claims emerged that employees inside the Cartrack offices had been prevented from leaving while the picket was underway. A message allegedly sent by an employee read, “We are locked inside, unable to go out,” and ANCYL members repeated the allegation, asserting that some workers were being kept inside the building against their will. IOL News reported that, prior to the protest’s start, there were no visible signs of employees reporting for duty, but a noticeable security presence surrounded the premises. After the demonstrators dispersed, staff were observed exiting the building, sitting in the courtyard, or leaving to buy food, with many declining to comment when approached.
Family’s Perspective
Family representatives, including Thamsanqa Mbuli and Lindiwe Dhladhla (Gcina’s sister), expressed appreciation for Cartrack’s cooperation and the openness of the initial discussion. Mbuli stated that the meeting helped clarify the sequence of events leading to Gcina’s passing and marked an important step in the family’s healing process. Lindiwe Dhladhla said the encounter gave her a sense of peace, while the family urged the public to allow investigative processes to unfold without preempting outcomes, emphasizing that Cartrack employees are “brothers and sisters” and should not be viewed as enemies.
Investigative Process
Both the family and Cartrack reiterated their commitment to supporting the ongoing independent investigations led by law‑enforcement and labour authorities. The joint statement stressed that the focus should remain on honouring Gcina Dhladhla’s memory, supporting those who are grieving, and allowing the appropriate processes to establish the facts. Victor confirmed that Cartrack would continue to work directly with the family and authorities, ensuring transparency and full cooperation throughout the inquiry.
Funeral Arrangements
Gcina Dhladhla is scheduled to be buried on Saturday, June 13. The family has extended an invitation to Cartrack colleagues, managers, and co‑workers to attend the funeral as a gesture of solidarity and support. Phumzile Dhladhla, Gcina’s aunt, noted that the family wishes Cartrack to feel welcome to pay their respects. Cartrack acknowledged the invitation, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to honour the deceased employee and to stand alongside the family during this difficult time.
Closing Remarks
The tragedy surrounding Gcina Dhladhla’s death has sparked a nationwide conversation about workplace safety, employee welfare, and corporate responsibility. While the investigation continues to uncover the precise circumstances, the joint efforts of Cartrack’s leadership and the bereaved family demonstrate a shared pursuit of truth and healing. As the community awaits the outcomes of the inquiries, the prevailing message remains one of respect for the deceased, support for her loved ones, and a call for accountable, transparent processes that prevent similar incidents in the future.