Spokesperson for the Eastern Cape Liquor Board (ECLB), Mgwebi Msiya, confirmed that they were shocked to hear that some learners have started to make plans to organise “pens down” parties, as the schools are about to be closed after the June exams. Msiya said ECLB strongly condemns this behaviour in the strongest possible terms, and urges learners to refrain from this tendency.
“These parties tend to end in disaster as was the case with the catastrophic Enyobeni Tavern incident where 21 young people perished in a tavern during pens down celebrations in June 2022,” said Msiya.
He added that as the examinations are in progress around the province, it is unfortunately the time when learners start to plan for the pens down parties that are predominantly marked by the excessive consumption of alcohol.
According to Msiya, they urge parents to be extremely vigilant during this period and to keep track of their children’s whereabouts.
“We further send a stern warning to all liquor traders not to host these pens down parties in their establishments, as this is a gross violation of the trading conditions and a criminal offence. We commend learners and other members of the community who continue to report these cases to the ECLB and SAPS.”
Msiya added that principals of all schools must heighten the message on “No to Pens Down”. He said they also implore their ambassadors and other responsible learners to be vigilant in and outside school, and report to school authorities suspicious actions by their fellow learners.
“ECLB school ambassadors and members of the community may report liquor traders who plan to host pens down parties and those who serve alcohol to under-age persons to the ECLB Toll Free 0800 00 420 or send a Whats-App message to 076 403 6223.”
He confirmed that ECLB will take necessary and drastic action against any non-compliant liquor outlet selling alcohol to under-age persons and hosting the pens down parties.
