An invitation to the party, under the banner “Let’s Get Mortal House Party”, went viral on Instagram on the same day. While a member of the family at whose house the event was hosted denies any knowledge of the invitation or how it was spread on social media, this would appear to be the reason for the massive turnout.
The invitation stated “cash bar available”.
One source the Advertiser spoke to said the party did offer a cash bar and required a cover charge of R50, if you didn’t have the invitation on your phone.
“There was a DJ and a lot of noise. It’s unbelievable that neighbours didn’t complain,” the source said.
The source, who gained access to the property at about 8pm that night, said they believe there were at least 700 people in attendance at that time. Not only was there a cash bar, but security staff – described by the source as “big bouncers” – were also manning the gate and various entry points to the house.
The source said the majority of the party-goers were underage teens and most were intoxicated.
“I’d say the ages varied from kids as young as 13 to adults over 30. I went there looking for someone and it took me an hour to find them – that’s how many people there were!
“The cash bar was well stocked with loads more alcohol in boxes in the kitchen area.”
The Advertiser made contact with the family member after visiting the property on Wednesday, last week. His phone number was obtained from a worker on the grounds.
He agreed to comment, anonymously, and said allegations that more than 700 people were at the party is a “gross lie” and that there had definitely been no cash bar available.
“This party was for my brother, who is 18 years old, and his friends. Only about 60 to 80 people were invited. We did have people turn up uninvited and it was a challenge to control who was coming in, which is why we had ‘people helping’ to control access.
“I had no knowledge of an invitation going viral on Instagram. I don’t even use Instagram.
“I have no knowledge either of underage kids drinking on the property. The property is nowhere near big enough to accommodate 700 people, so that is also a huge exaggeration.”
The Advertiser understands from various sources that parties of this nature are prevalent on the East Rand and elsewhere, and that attendance is almost always fuelled by invitations going viral on Instagram.
A similar party, which apparently took place in Sandton last year, reportedly drew over 1 000 people. Again, mostly underage teens attended and there was also a cover charge and cash bar.
While there are allegations that the police did arrive at the Libradene property at some stage (and told them to keep the noise down and left again), the family member denies this and Boksburg SAPS has no knowledge of the party.
The Libradene Security Village (LSV) homeowners’ association also knows nothing about the party. The Advertiser has requested comment about the security access control on the night of the party, as sources claim the boom was simply lifted and security guards knew where the party was.
No comment had been received at the time of going to print.
According to Capt Juanita Coetzer, communications officer for the Boksburg North SAPS, events which attract a big crowd need to be controlled properly. In order for this to be done, the event has to be brought to the attention of the police.
“Once we have the details, a board consisting of the SAPS, EMPD and Disaster and Risk Management Services and other role players, will categorise the event as low, medium or high risk.”
Coetzer added that other factors which have to be taken into consideration include toilet facilities, entrances and exits, traffic flow and paramedic services.
“Of course the sale of alcohol to underage children also has to be controlled.”
Commenting specifically on uncontrolled parties attended by minors, Coetzer said the consequences of such events can be severe for the children and their families.
“How are these young children getting out of the house and away from the supervision of their parents? If they say they are sleeping over at a friend, are the parents confirming this?
“Furthermore, we need to consider the fact that these children are getting to these parties by car. Children involved in accidents due to drivers being under the influence of alcohol or drugs, is a huge concern for the police and emergency services.
“Rape is also a reality and very concerning.”
Coetzer says every event must be properly executed according to law.
“The community and parents play a big role in curbing illegal and uncontrolled gatherings.
“Crime is everyone’s problem, not only that of the police. The community must report illegal activities.”
