The Department of Employment and Labour has launched a formal investigation into the death of 29-year-old Gcina Dhladhla, who passed away on 6 June 2026 at the Cartrack head office in Rosebank. The inquiry follows public pressure from labour organisations and a criminal complaint laid by the ANC Youth League at the Rosebank Police Station regarding the circumstances of the employee’s collapse.
Investigation And Corporate Response
Cartrack and the family of the deceased held a joint meeting on 10 June 2026 to address the sequence of events leading to the tragedy. Following the discussion, the company and the family issued a joint statement affirming their commitment to uncovering the facts through an independent investigative process.
We remain deeply committed to supporting the family, cooperating fully with law enforcement and the Department of Labour, and ensuring that every fact is uncovered and established through the appropriate processes.
Management at the firm maintains that sick leave procedures were followed correctly in the days preceding the incident. According to the company, the employee had previously taken approved sick leave on 1 June 2026, supported by a valid medical certificate.
Community And Labour Sector Impact
The incident has sparked widespread debate regarding workplace health and safety protocols and the treatment of staff in the call centre sector. Organisations such as the Congress of South African Trade Unions (COSATU) have raised concerns about the duty of care employers owe to their staff, particularly when dealing with health-related issues in high-pressure environments.
The concerns echo broader national discussions on the vulnerability of entry-level workers and the enforcement of the Basic Conditions of Employment Act. Authorities are expected to examine whether internal policies were adhered to and if all necessary emergency safety measures were present or adequately implemented at the time of the medical emergency.
The Department of Employment and Labour is expected to provide further updates as the investigation progresses.