World
21 teenagers found dead in South Africa bar; cause still unclear
"There are no visible open wounds,” said officials, ruling out a stampede as the cause of death.
Johannesburg: At least 21 teenagers—the youngest possibly just 13— have been found dead at a nightclub in the coastal town of East London; a tragedy whose cause is yet to be ascertained.
South African police investigating the deaths of at least 21 young people. As per officials most of the victims were minors as young as 13.
Reportedly, the students were celebrating the end of their high-school exams on Saturday night.
Local media outlets reported that bodies were strewn across tables and chairs without any visible signs of injuries.
Empty bottles of alcohol, wigs and even a pastel purple "Happy Birthday" sash were found scattered on the dusty street outside the double-storey Enyobeni Tavern.
"There are no visible open wounds,” said officials, ruling out a stampede as the cause of death.
The owner of the club, Siyakhangela Ndevu, told local media he was called to the scene early on Sunday morning.
The authorities will conduct autopsies as soon as possible to establish the probable cause of death.
Police minister Bheki Cele said the victims' ages ranged from 13 to 17, raising questions about why the underage teenagers were being served alcohol.
In the meantime, President Cyril Ramaphosa expressed condolences to the families of those who died.
The authorities are now considering whether to revise liquor licensing regulations.
It is pertinent to mention here that South Africa is among the countries where most alcohol is consumed.