Shebeen shakedown: Police raid in Umhlali nets eight arrests and booze confiscated
Residents of the informal settlement attacked and damaged police and security vehicles on April 7.
Eight people, including two wanted for a violent attack on the Umhlali police, were arrested at the Hlalangenkani informal settlement in Umhlali last Friday.
Residents of the settlement attacked and damaged police and security vehicles on April 7 after a raid on an alleged illegal tavern.
Police said they found a child selling alcohol and dagga from the shebeen.
Residents accused the police of stealing money from the premises and entering it without search warrants.iLembe cluster police spokesperson, captain Alex Thomson, said two people were charged with public violence for their involvement in damaging two Umhlali Saps and two private vehicles.
Two others were arrested for assault.
“The operation also targeted other illegal shebeens in the area, resulting in the arrest of four suspects and the seizure of over 380 bottles of alcohol, including ciders, beers, whiskey, vodka, and gin. All four suspects were charged with the possession and distribution of liquor, and their entire stock was confiscated,” said Thomson.
District commissioner Major General Anthony Gopaul commended the team for the swift arrests and reiterated the district’s commitment to upholding the rule of law and protecting Saps property and personnel.
“We will continue to work tirelessly to ensure the safety and security of all residents in the iLembe district. I urge the community to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the police,” said Gopaul.
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