Firefighters and emergency services have been battling through the night to fight a blaze that broke out in a five-story building in the Johannesburg CBD.
Seventy-three people have been confirmed dead and the death toll is expected to climb.
The spokesperson for Emergency Medical Services (EMS) in Johannesburg Robert Mulaudzi said the cause of the fire is still being investigated.
Dozens of people were treated for smoke inhalation and injuries.
It is believed that the building was being occupied by illegal immigrants.
The Mayor of Johannesburg Kabelo Gwamanda will address the media later on Thursday from the scene on the corner of Delvers and Alberts Streets.
(This article has been updated to reflect the latest death toll)
