Minister Maite Nkoana-Mashabane expresses her shock and deep sadness at the death of 21 teens at a tavern in the Eastern Cape
Minister in the Presidency for Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities, Maite Nkoana-Mashabane joins the nation in expressing her shock and deep sadness at the passing away of 21 teenagers at a tavern in East London, Eastern Cape.
News of this incident has sent shockwaves around the world, and has left South Africa in mourning.
Minister Nkoana-Mashabane said: “As a mother myself, I cannot begin to fathom what the parents of the deceased children must be going through. No parent should have to go through the pain of burying their children.”
The Minister urges the public to allow the South African Police Services to continue with their investigations. It is critically important that all South Africans, particularly the community of Scenery Park allow all assigned police officers to continue with their work, and for the community to lend their full cooperation in concluding the investigation.
“It still remains unclear what the cause of death was and therefore we should not speculate but wait until SAPS concludes their investigation on what took place. We must be sensitive to the families and friends of those who have died during this most difficult time. We must be careful not to spread false rumours or insensitive images,” said Minister Nkoana-Mashabane.
As the department, we join the President in wishing the families strength during this dark and difficult time.
For media related queries:
Mr Shalen Gajadhar (Director: Communications, Department of Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities) 060 979 4235
For media engagements with Minister Maite Nkoana-Mashabane contact Ms Siya Xolelwa Dwesini on 081 030 910
