South Africa
The death toll from a fuel tanker explosion near Johannesburg on Christmas eve has climbed to 26, a local official said on Wednesday (Dec. 28).
The provincial prime minister communicated the update during a visit to comfort families of the victims.
Relatives of the deceased gathered in Johannesburg during a memorial service honouring their loved ones.
A truck carrying liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) got stuck under a bridge in Boksburg on December 24, causing a leak and an explosion which badly damaged a nearby hospital.
It carried 60,000 litres (nearly 16,000 US gallons) of LPG, which is widely used for cooking.
10 people were initially killed. Eight more people subsequently died from severe burns and other injuries, the health authorities reported on Monday, and eight more died afterwards.
According to local media reports, the driver who arrested on suspicion of culpable homicide was released for lack of evidence.
President Cyril Ramaphosa said his thoughts were with the families and friends of the victims, adding he awaited the outcome of investigations into the tragedy.
Go to video
Semenya ruling shakes foundations of gender rules in sport
01:53
SMES under pressure as business confidence hits four-year low in South Africa
Go to video
Former South African deputy president David Mabuza dies at 64
00:56
South Africa: At least 101 dead in Eastern Cape floods as rescue efforts continue
Go to video
African gut study reveals urbanization threatens microbial diversity
01:35
Edgar Lungu's family condemns court decision to stop private burial in South Africa