Mass funeral due for SA tavern tragedy victims

The mass funeral for 21 teenagers who died in mysterious circumstances at a South African nightclub more than a week ago is due to take place on Wednesday.

The funeral ceremony for the teenagers aged between 13-17 will be held in a giant tent at Scenery Park, in East London.

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa and government officials, friends, relatives and pupils are among about 3,000 people who are expected to attend.

No official cause has yet been released for the deaths of the teenagers who were reportedly celebrating the end of their exams.

Experts have said initial results showed that the teenagers inhaled or ingested something that led to their deaths, but the toxicology report is yet to be finalised.

The tragedy has prompted a review of nightclub licences and premises in East London, and the Enyobeni tavern, where the bodies were found, has been closed.