In an effort to enhance the legal liquor trade in Pretoria Central, police recently sat down with several outlet owners to find ways to keep their businesses from facing legal consequences due to operating illegally.

The forum meeting’s sole purpose was to interact with both the owners and managers regarding their challenges and the law in terms of selling alcohol.

The Pretoria Central SAPS addressed various issues related to liquor licensing, responsible trading, and community impact.

Central SAPS spokesperson, Sergeant Thabang Nkhumise, said the station’s visible policing (Vispol) commander addressed the outlets’ concerns.

“Several matters relating to liquor licences, compliance, renewals, and the process for applying for events were raised.

“Another pressing issue was also to address the crimes, such as robberies, that their clients are exposed to upon the closure of these establishments.”

As mandated by the liquor board, any store selling alcohol must be verified, and must also take into account that alcohol sales are governed by the National Liquor Act as well as the Gauteng provincial liquor acts.

“We also urged those who operate with a permit to come and apply. Non-compliance may lead to steps taken and may lead to closure of the non-compliant businesses and seizure of their alcohol,” Nkhumise said.

Owners need to take into account that opening and closing times of the outlets must be in line with the specifications of the licence.

Security personnel must be registered with the Private Security Industry Regulatory Authority (PSIRA) to execute their duties, and managers must be registered with the Liquor Board to operate the store.

Police clearance is required to own or manage a liquor store, and you should consult with the closest police station on how to obtain this.

If you are planning an event, rather than a permanent store, an application form should be completed and sent to Gauteng.events@saps.gov.za. Otherwise, call 011 248 1126 or 082 779 8643, or email MatlouMA@saps.gov.za, MalopeMS@saps.gov.za, and TabaneAS@saps.gov.za.

Details for the next meeting will be communicated in due course, and you can directly call the station on 012 353 5001.

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