A year after the devastating incident at the Enyobeni tavern, shocking details have emerged during the trial of tavern owners Siyakhangela and Vuyokazi Ndevu. On June 26, 2022, 21 patrons, including 12 girls and nine boys, lost their lives in a tragic incident that has left the community reeling.
Witness Testimony Reveals Chaotic Scene
Nalo Mtizana, a witness testifying against the Ndevu couple, recounted the events of that fateful night. She described how the bouncer deployed a substance similar to pepper spray, causing patrons to suffocate and crush one another to death. Mtizana alleged that Siyakhangela Ndevu witnessed the chaos but failed to take any action.
Mtizana’s testimony revealed a chaotic scene where the bouncer sprayed the substance, locking the door behind them. She managed to escape to an upstairs balcony to catch her breath and inform others about the unfolding tragedy.
Previous Witness Testimony
Mbasa Mpafi, a survivor of the incident, previously testified that a bouncer blocked fleeing patrons from exiting the locked door. Mpafi’s testimony corroborates Mtizana’s account of the events that unfolded that night.
Liquor License Revoked
The Eastern Cape Liquor Board revoked the tavern’s liquor license and closed the establishment after an investigation revealed that some of the deceased patrons were as young as 13 years old. Nontsikelelo Nokhele, an administration clerk from the Eastern Cape Liquor Board, testified that she had instructed Vuyokazi Ndevu to ensure that no underage individuals were allowed in the tavern and that security personnel conduct thorough searches for weapons.
Trial Continues
The trial is set to continue as more evidence is presented. The Ndevu couple faces charges of violating the Liquor Act, accused of either selling alcohol to underage individuals or pressuring employees to do so.
The Enyobeni tavern tragedy has left a lasting impact on the community, and the trial’s revelations have sparked outrage and calls for accountability. As the trial continues, the families of the victims and the community await justice for the senseless loss of life.