A disturbing video that has gone viral on social media has triggered widespread outrage after it appeared to show underage children openly drinking alcohol in what is believed to be a community in the Eastern Cape. The footage, which has been viewed and shared more than 500 000 times across various platforms, has left many South Africans shocked and angry, with growing calls for the adults involved to be arrested.

In the video, several children believed to be between the ages of six (06) and twelve (12) are seen holding bottles of what appears to be beer. One young girl is shown licking the top of the bottle before taking a drink, while an adult voice can be heard encouraging the children to continue drinking. Elderly adults are visible nearby, seemingly watching as the children consume the alcohol.

The Eastern Cape Department of Social Development has confirmed that it is investigating the incident. The department said it is deeply concerned by the footage, which appears to show children being exposed to alcohol without any form of protection or intervention from the adults present. Officials said the investigation will focus on identifying the children, the adults involved and the location where the video was recorded.

MEC for Social Development Bukiwe Fanta said the incident highlights a deeply troubling situation that cannot be ignored. She warned that allowing children to consume alcohol compromises their physical, emotional and psychological development and exposes them to serious short and long term risks.

Fanta stressed that adults have a duty to protect children from harm and to act responsibly, particularly during the festive season when alcohol consumption tends to increase. She also called on communities to work together to safeguard children and to report any form of abuse or neglect.

Health experts caution that alcohol consumption in children can have severe consequences. Alcohol affects brain development, which continues well into early adulthood, and early exposure has been linked to learning difficulties, memory problems and poor decision making. Children who start drinking at a young age are also more likely to struggle with addiction later in life. Other dangers include alcohol poisoning, injuries, risky behaviour and an increased likelihood of mental health problems.

Public reaction to the video has been swift and intense. Many South Africans took to social media platform X to express their anger and concern. One user called for authorities to locate the place where the video was filmed and to ensure that the parents or guardians of the children are arrested.

Another user said the issue goes beyond whether the bottles contained alcohol, arguing that forcing adult behaviour on young children amounts to abuse and robs them of a normal childhood. A third user described the scenes as clear evidence of unfit parenting, warning that normalising alcohol at such a young age sets children up for addiction and long-term failure.

Others echoed similar sentiments, saying the video reflects a broader problem where alcohol is treated casually around children in some communities, often with devastating consequences later in life.

Authorities have urged members of the public with information about the incident to come forward as investigations continue.