At least 20 dead in South African club; cause not yet known

A body is removed from a nightclub in East London, South Africa. South African police are investigating the deaths of at least 20 people at a nightclub in the seaside town of East London early on Sunday morning.

JOHANNESBURG: South African police are investigating the deaths of at least 20 people at a nightclub in the east London seaside town early on Sunday morning.
It remains unclear what led to the deaths of the young people, who are believed to be attending a party to celebrate the end of winter exams.
Local newspaper Daily dispatch reported that bodies were strewn across tables and chairs without any signs of injury.
“At this time, we cannot confirm the cause of death,” said a spokesperson for the health department Siyanda Manana.
Manana added: “We will conduct an autopsy as soon as possible to determine the possible cause of death.
Police Minister Bheki Cele was scheduled for Sunday morning to visit the scene.
The club’s owner, Siyakhangela Ndevu, told local broadcaster eNCA that he was called to the scene early Sunday morning.
“I’m still not sure what really happened, but when I was called in the morning, I was told the place was full and some people were trying to get into the pub,” he said.
“However, we will hear what the police have to say about the cause of death,” Ndevu added.