Police are investigating the deaths of at least 17 people found inside the Enyobeni Tavern in Scenery Park, East London in the early hours of Sunday, June 26.
According to Eastern Cape police spokesperson Brigadier Tembinkosi Kinana, young people aged between 18 and 20 were among the dead.
“The SAPS confirms that about 17 were found dead inside the tavern in Scenery Park, in the area of East London. We received this report in the early hours of Sunday. The circumstances surrounding the incident are under investigation as we speak,” Kinana said.
“We do not want to make any speculations at this stage. Our investigation is continuing.”
He further added that, “The circumstances under which they died are under investigation and it is too early to determine the causes of death.”
A spokesperson for Eastern Cape’s health department told News24 that the dead bodies were taken to various nearby mortuaries.
Siyanda Manana added, “We are going to conduct autopsies as soon as possible to establish the probable cause of death.”
This is a developing story.
UPDATE: According to Eastern Cape police spokesperson, Brigadier Tembinkosi Kinana, the latest developments at midday suggested that about 20 patrons have now been confirmed dead.
“The number has therefore risen from 17 to 20. An additional two was earlier rushed to a nearby health facility with one dying upon arrival,” Kinana said.
He added that seven of the confirmed deaths are reported to be women with thirteen being men.
“Inquest dockets have been registered for further investigation.”
Anyone with information that can shed some light onto the incident can contact the Scenery Park Police Station or call the Crime Stop number 086 00 10111.
