The ongoing inquest into the tragic deaths of 21 young individuals at the Enyobeni tavern resumed this week in the Mdantsane Magistrate’s Court. The focus shifted to Thembisa Diko, the tavern’s bouncer, who revealed crucial details about the events that unfolded that fateful night.
During her testimony, Diko admitted to experiencing trauma and memory loss due to the horrific incident. She stated that the experience left her deeply affected and struggling to recall specific events. Diko also confessed that she lacked formal training as a bouncer and suggested that having additional security personnel might have mitigated the tragic outcome.
Crucially, Diko acknowledged that she had previously provided false statements to law enforcement. She claimed she was advised by her colleagues that confessing to using pepper spray on patrons could lead to her arrest, prompting her to mislead investigators.
The tavern’s co-owner, Siyakhangela Ndevu, contested Diko’s assertions, arguing that she indeed deployed pepper spray inside the establishment shortly before patrons began to experience suffocation and collapse. This assertion raises significant questions about the safety measures and practices in place at the tavern.
The inquest also highlighted the tavern’s troubled history, with attorney Vuyisile Magqabi noting that the venue had been the site of numerous disturbances. Community members had previously expressed concerns about the tavern’s operations, holding meetings to voice their grievances. This pattern of issues calls into question the oversight provided by the Eastern Cape Liquor Board.
Moreover, Magqabi referred to an earlier shooting incident and an attempted murder case linked to the tavern, suggesting that more proactive measures from regulatory authorities might have prevented the tragedy.
Earlier this year, Siyakhangela and her co-owner, Vuyokazi Ndevu, were found guilty of selling alcohol to minors, resulting in a fine. Following this conviction, the Buffalo City Metro successfully obtained a court order to demolish the tavern, reflecting the broader community’s frustration and desire for accountability.
As the inquest continues, the focus remains on unraveling the series of events that led to the catastrophic loss of young lives and ensuring that such a tragedy does not happen again. The testimonies and evidence presented thus far underscore the need for stricter enforcement of safety regulations in establishments serving alcohol, especially those frequented by younger patrons.
In summary, the revelations from Diko’s testimony shed light on the chaotic circumstances surrounding the Enyobeni tavern tragedy. As the community seeks justice for the victims, the ongoing proceedings may lead to necessary reforms in the management of nightlife venues to enhance safety for all patrons.