ENYOBENI TAVERN OWNERS’ TRIAL COMMENCE
The first state witness in the case against the married couple, Vuyokazi Ndevu and Siyakhangela Ndevu, took the stand today. Mncedisi Khwinana (67) whose house is a stone’s throw from the establishment, gave his evidence-in-chief, led by senior prosecutor Advocate Thango Pangalela. He was later cross-examined by the defence attorney to the couple before the court adjourned the matter to 23 and 24 May 2023 for the testimony of more state witnesses.
The two are charged with two offences of selling or supplying intoxicating liquor to persons under the age of 18 years, and responsibility for conniving with and permitting employees and agents to sell or deliver intoxicating liquor to persons under the age of 18 years. They have pleaded not guilty to both charges.
Another leg of the case which relates to the death of 21 is still under investigation by the police, which is prosecutor guided.
The NPA views that case in a very serious light and has assigned senior prosecutors to guide the investigations as mandated by the constitution, to ensure that the evidence needed to bring those criminally liable for the tragedy are prosecuted and face the full might of the law. The families of the young children, some under-age, the affected community, and South Africans at large are anxious to see justice served for their children who died in such tragic circumstances. The NPA is committed to a victim-centred approach that prioritizes justice for crimes committed against the most vulnerable in our society, especially women and children.
The NPA will continue keeping the families of the deceased informed of any new developments, and public announcements on any decision regarding the case will only be made after the families have been updated.
