Durban — Three people were killed in two separate tavern incidents in Ladysmith and Ulundi over the past few days.
KwaZulu-Natal Liquor Authority acting chief executive Bheki Mbanjwa said the violent incidents took place within the uThukela and Zululand districts.
The latest incident took place at Da Chillers Junction in Ulundi on Monday when a quarrel between patrons resulted in the fatal stabbing of one person.
The first incident took place on Saturday at the Blue Waters Tavern in Ladysmith, where it is alleged the suspects started a quarrel with some of the patrons and started shooting patrons at random. Two patrons were shot dead.
Police spokesperson Constable Thenjiswa Ngcobo said Ladysmith police were called to Peacetown where two people were shot and killed after two unknown people walked into a tavern and opened fire at the patrons.
“Two men aged between 29 and 30 were declared dead on the scene,” Ngcobo said.
“Ladysmith police are investigating two counts of murder.”
“The KZN Liquor Authority confirms that both liquor outlets are licensed and are in possession of valid liquor licences,” Mbanjwa said.
“A further internal investigation will be conducted in order to determine if there were any breaches of the liquor licence conditions by the owners of the outlets (licence holders).”
Mbanjwa added: “As we continue to receive reports relating to acts of violence within liquor outlets, we urge our licence holders to ensure that they take all the necessary measures to ensure the safety of their patrons.”
He said that liquor outlets should not become a breeding ground for acts of violence and criminality. Licence holders are reminded to adhere to the security commitments outlined in their security plan.
“We urge communities to remain vigilant and to consider their safety when visiting liquor outlets. We will continue to work closely with law enforcement agencies in ensuring maximum compliance and safety within our liquor outlets,” Mbanjwa said.
Communities are urged to report any suspicious and non-compliant liquor outlets on 031 302 0600 or email [email protected].
Members of the public are encouraged to report any fraud, corruption, or wrongdoing through the Ethics hotline 0800 004424.
Daily News