A young man in his early 20s tragically died during the United Church of Solomon Islands (UCSI) National Youth Convention held last week at Kokegolo, Munda, in Western Province.

The deceased, who was from Wagina in Choiseul Province, was one of the participants attending the week-long church gathering.

Unconfirmed reports suggest that his death may be linked to the consumption of an illegal substance known locally as “coupen.”

Witnesses reported seeing the young man chewing betelnut with a group of friends on Friday night. After the gathering dispersed, he reportedly went to rest in a hammock, where he later began experiencing health difficulties. He is believed to have passed away sometime between 1am and 2am on Saturday.

His body was discovered the following morning during the ongoing campout, sending shock and sorrow through fellow youth participants and members of the host community.

Local authorities and health officials have been notified, and an investigation is expected to be launched to determine the exact cause of death.

The UCSI National Youth Convention officially concluded on Sunday.

By ULUTAH GINA

Solomon Star, Gizo