The owner of the Enyobeni tavern where 21 teenagers died has apologised, saying he would assist police in their investigations.

In the early hours of Sunday morning, the bodies of the teens were found inside the tavern, the youngest being only 13-years-old.

The owner explained that he never saw such an incident coming, but things like this do happen when no one is expecting them.

There was particular concern around why under aged children were allowed into an establishment meant for persons older than 18. The cause of the death is still being determined.

Meanwhile, strategic advisor for the Southern African Alcohol Policy Alliance of South Africa, Aadielah Maker has called on society to do better to not allow under aged children to consume alcohol.

Maker questioned why parents and the community as a whole are allowing such behaviour to be normalised among minors.