PhD Study Investigates Violence in Alcohol Establishments

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An incident in Cape Town involving violence in the entertainment industry sparked Dr Nkosingiphile Mbhele’s interest, leading him to conduct a study that has earned him a PhD from the School of Applied Human Sciences.

Mbhele, who is also a lecturer within UKZN’s Criminology and Forensic Studies discipline, tackled issues concerning violence and those who offer protection to service patrons after discovering a rapid rise in violent behaviour in this area.

According to Mbhele’s supervisor, Professor Shanta Singh, alcohol and drug consumption has increased both nationally and internationally and often results in violence and his study promotes ways of how these environments could be made safer.

‘The study investigated Pietermaritzburg’s nature of alcohol establishments where protection of patrons from crime or dangerous situations is concerned, their business’s compliance with laws, specifically the Private Security Industry Regulation Act 56 of 2001, and whether bouncers were trained and registered with the Private Security Industry Regulatory Authority (PSIRA),’ he said, adding that non-compliance is a significant cause for concern.

Mbhele said the study used a mixed-method approach, and that participants included bouncers, employees from the enforcement and compliance divisions of the Private Security Industry Regulatory Authority, owners and managers of bars and clubs, as well as customers.

He contends that most bouncers lack proper training and are not registered with PSIRA as private securities and that most bars go against rules in the process of hiring bouncers. ‘Most bouncers are also uninformed of any relevant legal requirements that control their profession and market,’ he said.

For the amazing support he received from friends and family, Mbhele expressed gratitude, also thanking his parents, Ms Nonhlanhla and Mr Mthokozisi Mbhele, for their care throughout his academic journey, ‘Gratitude also goes to my parent’s late friend, Mr Mfundo Radebe, for his wise words and for encouraging me during my journey.

‘During the night when gathering data, friends provided safety, and support; inspiring me to continue working hard even when I wanted to give up. Their encouragement and support fuelled my determination.’

Mbhele said it feels surreal to finally be graduating, stating that at some point, his dream seemed unattainable because he had to juggle work and school. He plans on concentrating more on academic publications, taking part in more community involvement activities, and looking for possibilities to teach abroad through exchange programmes.

Words: Sinoyolo Mahlasela

Photograph: Sethu Dlamini