Tragedy Strikes East London Tavern: 22 Young Lives Lost in a Gloomy Stampede
What Happened?
Quick rundown: Inside the bustling Enyobeni Tavern, a crowd of teenagers—some under 18—crowded the space. A sudden surge or a panic wave turned the lively atmosphere into chaos. The result? A heart‑wracking stampede that claimed 22 young souls.
Official Response
- State broadcaster SABC reports a possible stampede, but the exact cause still sails in the fog.
- Health department spokesperson Siyanda Manana ordered immediate autopsies and toxicology screening to unravel the cause.
- Bodies are being taken to state mortuaries, where relatives will assist in identifying both male and female victims.
Leadership Voices
President Cyril Ramaphosa voiced deep concern, saying parents must watch over their kids and that the law will intervene once investigations finish.
National police minister Bheki Cele urged the community not to let such tragedies repeat, addressing a crowd in Scenery Park under live television coverage.
Community Grief
A 17‑year‑old local, known as “Lolly”, whispered to Reuters: “Everyone wants it closed. They’re selling booze to underage kids, and now our kids are gone.”
Local Officials
Brigadier Tembinkosi Kinana noted police were called by community members near Scenery Park. East London mayor Xola Pakati likened the disaster to a “massacre” in his statement.
Take‑Away
- Underage alcohol sales are a ticking time bomb.
- Even a popular hangout can become a deadly lung for panic.
- Law and community must hold each other accountable to protect youth.
In the wake of this tragedy, the town’s heart aches—yet it also lights a clarion call: safety first, forever.