The inquest into the tragic deaths of 21 young patrons at Enyobeni Tavern resumed today in the East London Regional Court, sitting in Mdantsane.
Video footage previously shown in court placed tavern manager Siyakhangela Ndevu at the scene during the fatal night in June 2022. The footage shows Ndevu behind the bar, serving alcohol to patrons, while other scenes reveal individuals coughing and covering their faces—raising further concerns over the conditions inside the venue.
More witnesses are expected to testify today as the court continues to probe who should be held accountable for the mass casualty event.
Owner Denies Responsibility
During her last court appearance earlier this month, tavern owner Vuyokazi Ndevu claimed she did not know who should be held responsible for the tragedy. She stands accused of failing to ensure safety protocols were followed during the event, which took place without a special permit.
Evidence leader Advocate Luvuyo Vena criticized the tavern owners for prioritizing profit over safety, noting that the necessary event permit—required to regulate crowd numbers—was never secured.
Liquor Licence Declared Invalid
Testimony from Eastern Cape Liquor Board official Phumlani Tyali in late 2023 further complicates the matter. Tyali informed the court that the tavern's liquor licence became invalid after structural upgrades were made to the establishment.
Tyali, responsible for licensing oversight, stated that the owners should be held accountable, as they continued to operate the venue without rectifying the licensing breach.
The inquest seeks to determine liability for the deaths, which sent shockwaves across South Africa and sparked national debate over underage drinking and enforcement of liquor laws. Proceedings are set to continue.