Update on Enyobeni cases and current developments

Following the tragic incident which occurred at Enyobeni Tavern in Scenery Park, the South African Police Service immediately assembled a team of investigators in order to establish how the incident unfolded and in particular the cause thereof. In concert with other government departments, the SAPS worked closely to ensure that progress is made and the affected families find close from the unfortunate incident.

The tragedy claimed about twenty one (21) lives of young people believed to have gone to the tavern as part of their pens down celebrations after their school examinations. On the day, the children unfortunately died from an unknown cause and police detectives had to scratch for clues and gather all evidence which would possibly provide answers to the bereaved families and the public as well.

During the course of the investigation, the department of health indeed released the post mortem results which as a matter of procedure had to be handed over to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) for interpretation and decision on whether there were prospects for formulating charges and subsequent prosecution of the suspects implicated in the incident.

After the docket with the post-mortem results was taken to the Director of Public Prosecutions for a decision, it was then decided that the docket be taken to the Inquest court proceeding for a formal hearing. The office of the DPP is currently preparing subpoenas for all witnesses to attend the hearing on the 30th August 2023 in the East London Regional Court.

All the relevant and affected parents in the case have been given feedback in this regard and have been informed that the case, including other details relating to the post-mortem results are only subject of the discussion in court to avoid jeopardising and compromising the evidence which is yet to be presented before the court of law.

Addressing the family representatives, the SAPS management has further committed to visit the individual families to provide the necessary updates on the case. The gesture was welcomed by the families. The SAPS continues to work with the office of the DPP in ensuring that all the necessary investigative and legal issues are finalised before the set court date.

Enquiries: Brigadier Tembinkosi Kinana

Cell: 082 3017699

MEC Spokesperson for Community Safety: Mr Makhaya Komisa

Cell: 066 381 8259

Source: Government of South Africa