The infamous bouncer in the Enyobeni tavern tragedy was back on the stand as the inquest into the deaths of 21 young people continued in the Mdantsane Magistrate's Court on Monday.
Thembisa Diko testified that witnessing the tragic events left her traumatised and suffering from memory loss.
Diko also disclosed that she was not trained as a bouncer and had suggested that the hiring of more bouncers might have prevented the deaths at the Scenery Park tavern over two years ago.
The 38-year-old admitted to making false statements to police after being warned by colleagues that she might be arrested if she confessed to using pepper spray on patrons that night.
Tavern co-owner Siyakhangela Ndevu challenged Diko's testimony, asserting she used pepper spray inside the tavern at around 1 a.m. just before patrons complained of suffocation and began collapsing.
Meanwhile, the families' attorney acknowledged that the tavern had a reputation for disturbances, with community members holding several meetings to complain about the liquor outlet.
Vuyisile Magqabi also highlighted a prior shooting and attempted murder case at the tavern, questioning if quicker action from the Eastern Cape Liquor Board could have prevented the tragedy.
Owners Siyakhangela and Vuyokazi Ndevu were earlier this year found guilty of selling liquor to underage patrons and were issued with a fine, while the Buffalo City Metro has successfully obtained a court order to demolish the building.
The inquest continues.
