Alexandra Station Commander Brigadier Vusimuzi Ngubane has warned that the festive season often sees a spike in criminal activities, largely due to poor adherence to the Gauteng Liquor Act.

He said some tavern owners’ refusal to close their establishments at 02:00 compromises the safety of their customers. “They must close their taverns at 02:00. That means at 02:00, customers must be out. Then our area will be safe,” Ngubane stressed.

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The commander acknowledged that illegal taverns continue to operate covertly in the community, attracting customers after legitimate businesses close. However, he urged tavern owners to comply with the law regardless. “We will deal with those who are trading illegally,” he said.

Ngubane also called on customers to play their role in ensuring compliance. “Don’t buy liquor after 02:00, you can buy alcohol earlier, go home, rest and drink it there in your house. You will even be safe there, no one is going to shoot at you. No one is going to rob you with your family while you are drinking, there will be no crime, as long as you don’t fight with your family.”

He encouraged residents to report taverns that fail to close on time. “Be the eyes and the ears, not only for the police but also for your neighbour, for the whole community,” he said. Ngubane added that if a tavern owner is not compliant, residents can even call a community meeting, as intoxicated customers often inconvenience those living nearby. “They would urinate on the walls. You would even find some engaging in sexual activities inside a car.”

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Emphasising respect and responsibility, Ngubane said tavern owners must take full control of their businesses. “I know that people would be under the influence of alcohol when they do these things, but we should respect each other. The tavern owners should also take full responsibility.”

He urged tavern owners to enhance safety measures during the festive season to prevent opportunistic crimes. “Have car guards, and have security at the entrance, not everyone should get in and out as they wish. It must be monitored and controlled. Take control of your tavern, don’t give it to irresponsible young boys, who would play loud music and not comply.”

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