Many taverns are operating illegally in villages around Tzaneen
Despite the ban on selling alcohol, taverns are operating illegally from their back doors.
Tavern owners in villages are not obeying the regulations as set down for 21-day lockdown period.
According to the regulations to curb the spread of the coronavirus, people are not allowed to leave their homes unless they are going to buy groceries. Taverns, pubs, liquor stores and restaurants are not allowed to operate.
But it seems that some taverns in rural villages have been operating from their back doors. Customers order drinks and a time is set collect their orders.
“So far we do not know of any taverns that are operating illegally and even if they are operating, no one is reporting them. As far as we know, they are complying with the law,” said Tumelo Rakgoale, a police officer from Dzumeri police station near Tzaneen.
Community members were asked on why they do not report the taverns which are still operating.
“Some people still go outside even though they are told to stay in their homes, they are afraid to report the man who still sells alcohol as he is a feared person,” said Reginald Khosa, a community member near Tzaneen.
Although, in places like Nkowankowa outside of Tzaneen, residents are abiding to the regulations set out under the state of disaster. “They are staying indoors, and those going to work make sure that they have all the necessities to disinfect themselves from the virus,” said a resident.
