EASTERN CAPE — The South African Police Service (SAPS) in the Eastern Cape has launched investigations into the separate deaths of two Walter Sisulu University students over the past weekend.

Police have opened two separate inquest dockets following the unrelated incidents, which took place in KuGompo City (East London) and Mthatha.

The first tragedy occurred in Mthatha on Saturday, 30 May 2026, at approximately 02:00. It is alleged that a 19-year-old male student was walking home from a local tavern when he slipped on wet ground at Chris Hani Park. During the fall, a bottle he was carrying broke, causing a severe open wound to his thigh. The student tragically bled to death at the scene. Mthatha Central police have registered an inquest docket.

The second incident took place on Sunday, 31 May 2026, at approximately 13:00 in Haven Hills, KuGompo City. A 22-year-old female student died at Calypso Gardens following a kitchen accident. Authorities report that she was cooking food wrapped in aluminium foil inside a microwave when the appliance exploded, sparking a fire. The student suffered burn injuries and is believed to have succumbed to smoke inhalation.

Eastern Cape police are continuing their investigations into both fatalities.