EAST LONDON: The SAPS management in the Eastern Cape has expressed concerns about circulating rumours and media reports speculating on the cause of death in the Tavern Tragedy incident which occurred early Sunday morning 26 June 2022 in Scenery Park, East London.

As clearly articulated in a statement released by SAPS on Monday regarding the ongoing investigations, SAPS forensic investigators are still continuing with the investigation into the deaths of 21 children at Enyobeni Tavern in Scenery Park. After conducting investigation in the building structure where the incident allegedly took place, and in the bodies where autopsies were conducted, all the exhibit specimen extracted were then taken to the forensic laboratory for toxicology examination.

Until such time that the work of the forensic laboratory is concluded, any informal and unofficial information which is not released by the South African Police Service, must be regarded as falsehood and misleading to the public and the affected deceased families.

In this regard, the Provincial Commissioner, Lt Gen Nomthetheleli Mene cautioned against the spreading of fabricated stories which carries a potential to sow confusion and doubts into police investigations. “As indicated earlier, at an appropriate time and when an official report has been made available by the experts, the family and members of the public will be informed by the relevant authority. We urge people to refrain from making risky assumptions which do not assist our investigations” Lt Gen Mene concluded.

The SAPS appeals to anyone who may share information that can assist the ongoing investigation, to please make contact with Brigadier Mxolisi Mqotyana at 082 5292 465 or call Crime Stop on 08600 10111.

Source: South African Police Service