At least 16 people, including three children, have tragically lost their lives in South Africa due to a suspected gas leak incident near Johannesburg.
The state-owned broadcaster SABC said the incident happened near Johannesburg and that a search operation was ongoing.
The South African Police Services reported the incident in the Boksburg district, and two individuals have been hospitalized for treatment.
William Ntladi, a spokesperson for the local disaster and emergency management services, stated that the final numbers of fatalities and hospitalized casualties will be determined as the situation unfolds.
While there are speculations that the incident might be connected to illegal mining activities, Mr. Ntladi emphasized that it is yet to be confirmed. The possibility of illegal miners being among the deceased is still under investigation.
