Cape Town - Police have ruled out foul play in connection with the drowning of a 21-year-old at a dam at the Rocking the Daisies music festival in Darling at the weekend.
Event organisers said they were working with the authorities to understand how the drowning of a staff member had happened.
Event organiser spokesperson Manuela de Deus said the organisers met the man’s family on Friday and were providing them with all the assistance they needed.
Police spokesperson FC van Wyk said on Sunday that police have opened an inquest docket for investigation.
In a statement, the organisers sent their condolences to the man’s family, saying they were “deeply saddened” by the drowning.
“First and foremost, we want to extend our sympathies to the individual, who was a staff member of one of the event’s suppliers, and to his family. Additional information will be provided as and when it becomes available and as may be appropriate,” read the statement.
Meanwhile, the 16 people arrested in connection with drugs and stolen property at the event were expected to appear at the Darling Magistrate’s Court on Monday, police said.
“There were a lot less arrests than in 2015. This can be attributed to people learning that the festival has a zero tolerance to drugs, so fewer people are trying to bring them in,” said De Deus.
The sold-out event, attended by thousands of music fans, featured more than 250 acts, including comedy, art and film.
The festival featured some of the country’s best acts, including legendary jazz musician Hugh Masekela, AKA and Jimmy Nevis.
Other performers included the Rudimentals from the UK, Crystal Fighters, The Cat Empire, The Kooks and dozens of other international artists.
“In a first for Daisies, a hip-hop stage was added this year and by all accounts it stole the show.
“Placed on the main thoroughfare near the festival’s biggest stages, it turned out to be one of the hottest spots this year,” said De Deus.
Cape Times