Cape Town - The Western Cape Liquor Authority’s hearing into Osi’s Place in Khayelitsha where a collapsed stairwell resulted in the deaths of eight young women in June has been postponed, the Western Cape provincial government said on Monday.
Economic Opportunities MEC Alan Winde said that the hearing had been postponed until next month.
“This morning, during a brief appearance before the Liquor Licencing Tribunal (LLT), the licence holder requested a postponement,” Winde said in a statement.
“The licence holder, who appeared without a lawyer, said he needed time to secure new legal representation. In response, the prosecutor representing the Western Cape Liquor Authority requested that the hearing proceed.”
Winde said after a brief adjournment the LLT granted a postponement until September 21. The hearing would proceed on that date even if the licence holder had not secured legal representation, he added.
According to Winde, the LLT further ordered that the liquor licence remains suspended until a final judgement is handed down.
Phumlani Abraham is the owner of Osi’s Place in Makaza, Khayelitsha.
Six women died at the shebeen when a step railing collapsed and another two who were seriously injured in the collapse died when the car rushing them to hospital collided with another vehicle.
According to police, the deceased were aged between 15 and 23.
Winde urged residents to work with authorities to root out legal traders who contravened liquor laws.
“I want to urge all residents to contact the Liquor Authority with reports of transgressions at legal outlets. We can only stamp out the negative impact of alcohol abuse if we join hands. Together, we can run these traders out of communities. We encourage responsible trading and commend those in the industry who are complying with the law.”
To report unlawful activity at a licensed establishment, contact the Western Cape Liquor Authority on 021 204 9700.
ANA