Enyobeni Tavern owners Siyakhangela and Vuyokazi Ndevu.
Four years after 21 teenagers died at Enyobeni Tavern, the East London Regional Court has found the former owners liable for the tragedy, but the tavern owner remains defiant, saying the children's parents are to blame.
Magistrate Mvuselelo Malindi handed down his verdict after a lengthy inquest exploring the circumstances surrounding the tragic events of the night of June 26, 2022.
Some as young as 13 had gathered at the tavern in KuGompo City, formerly East London, to celebrate the end of their exams, known locally as a pens down party. What was meant to be a joyous occasion turned into a horrific scene of chaos and despair.
Forensic pathologists determined the cause of death to be crush asphyxiation, brought on by extreme overcrowding and insufficient ventilation inside the packed venue. Early speculation had ranged from poisoned alcohol to counterfeit liquor after initial reports identified traces of methanol, but expert testimony before the inquest rejected that narrative.
