By: Natasha Archary
Enyobeni Tavern in East London has been shut down as the South African Human Rights Commission probes the deaths of 21 minors.
On Sunday, 26 June, the bodies of the teenagers were discovered at the venue, which was serving alcohol to the underage youngsters.
The youngest victim was just 13-years old and the owner of the tavern is reportedly facing criminal charges for violating the alcohol license terms.
On Monday, 27 June, the National Liquor Traders Council shared that the tavern owner violated the conditions of the liquor license at his establishment.
The tavern owners should have done more to ensure that no underage patrons were served alcohol. While the cause of the 21 teenager’s deaths have not been confirmed, the tavern’s doors will remain closed.
The Eastern Cape Liquor Board (ECLB) served the owner’s wife, Vuyokazi Ndevu papers on Monday, confirming the tavern will remain closed.
This while the investigations continue as the business is now a crime scene.
Apart from the tavern owners, there are calls for parents to also be held accountable, for negligent parenting.
Police Minister Bheki Cele said the children drank, felt dizzy, fell asleep and died.
There was no evidence of any injuries on their bodies, and survivors of the tragedy are being treated for various symptoms, including nausea, vomiting, headaches and tight chests.
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