SA offers condolences for refinery explosion

Aug 28, 2012 | Sapa | 3 comments

President Jacob Zuma has offered SA's condolences to Venezuela following an explosion at an oil refinery that has claimed at least 48 lives.

“Our hearts are with President [Hugo] Chavez, family and friends of the deceased, as well as the government and the people of Venezuela during this difficult time of mourning,” Zuma said in a statement.

The refinery in Amuay suffered an explosion on Saturday with the ensuring fires still raging.

Chavez has declared three days of national mourning and promised an investigation into the explosion.

“It is expected that the investigation into the tragedy will bring closure to those families who have lost their loved ones in line of duty to the great people of Venezuela,” Zuma said.