Tragedy has struck the Malawian community in South Africa as another individual has died from injuries sustained in a gas tanker explosion that occurred on Christmas Eve.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs Spokesperson, John Kabaghe, confirmed the news and stated that the total number of deaths from the incident has risen to five.

Kabaghe revealed that three of the victims were from the same family and that the ministry has been advised by their family members to repatriate their bodies.

He did not provide further details about the victims but indicated that four were from Thyolo and one was from Karonga district.

The gas tanker explosion occurred near a hospital in Johannesburg, South Africa, claiming the lives of 34 people, including ten health workers.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs extends its deepest condolences to the families of the victims and is working to assist with the repatriation of the bodies.