By Jonk wa Mashamba
news@alexreporter.co.za
President Cyril Ramaphosa also expressed his condolences and concern at the death of 22 teenagers at a tavern in Scenery Park, East London, in the early hours of today, Sunday, 26 June 2022.
While the President awaits more information on the incident, his thoughts are with the families who have lost children as well as families who are awaiting confirmation of how their children may have been affected.
The President is, however, also concerned about the reported circumstances under which such young people were gathered at a venue which, on the face of it, should be off limits to persons under the age of 18.
Ramaphosa expects the law to take its course following investigations into the tragedy.
President Ramaphosa said: “This tragedy is made even more grave by its occurrence during Youth Month – a time during which we celebrate young people, advocate and advance opportunities for improved socio-economic conditions for the youth of our nation.”
In the meantime, the owner of the Enyobeni tavern is reportedly devastated by the incident.
Eastern Cape community safety MEC Weziwe Tikana-Gxothiwe said:
“I have met with him and he is very much devastated. He said he cannot explain how the incident took place.”
Tikana-Gxothiwa told eNCA the tavern owner had since been advised to close his business until a full investigation is conducted and concluded.
“He has welcomed the advice and will close until further notice,” Tikana-Gxothiwe said.
Police are still unclear on the circumstances surrounding the early morning mass deaths.
Eastern Cape police spokesperson Brig Tembinkosi Kinana said detectives are on the scene trying to piece together events.
Kinana said a press release would be issued later on Sunday.
