Illegal liquor sales spark Menlo Park community petition drive
Police admitted concerns over public complaints but say targeted patrols, confiscations, and arrests are underway to clamp down on violations.
Residents of Menlo Park have raised an alarm over the illegal sale of liquor and gambling taking place outside the Menlo Park SPAR, demanding stronger action from both SAPS and TMPD.
Ward 82 councillor Siobhan Muller said she engaged with residents and petitioners at the site on September 20.
“People came to sign the petition demanding that both SAPS and TMPD do their job,” she explained.
According to Muller, law enforcement is often alerted but fails to act decisively.
“When called out, they drive past to have a look. Literally, no action, but at least they tell the public they were there. What do they earn salaries for?” she asked.
Muller said signatures were collected on Saturday, with more expected as the petition moves online.
She described the event as both a petition drive and an opportunity to listen to frustrated residents, who feel abandoned by authorities.
“We signed up members and had a great morning,” Muller said, “but this is about safety and restoring law and order in our neighbourhood.”
In response, Brooklyn police station commander Brigadier Kushie Pietersen confirmed the station is aware of the problem and has been conducting operations to clamp down on illicit liquor sales.
“Brooklyn SAPS has conducted several operations, including Operation Shanela, targeting non-compliance with liquor laws.
“Our members have made confiscations of illicit liquor and arrests related to liquor law contraventions,” Pietersen said.
She stressed that alcohol misuse is linked to broader social issues, such as public disorder and domestic violence, making it a policing priority.
Pietersen also said that allegations that officers sometimes drive past without intervening are concerning.
“Effective policing requires visible and responsive action. Such claims warrant investigation and, if necessary, adjustments to our strategies,” she said.
Pietersen added that policing illegal trading in Menlo Park often involves more than SAPS alone.
“Residents don’t only contact Brooklyn SAPS. TMPD is also called because they are responsible for enforcing certain by-laws,” she explained.
Pietersen said to restore order, police are intensifying patrols, running targeted operations like Operation Shanela and station-led initiatives, and working closely with the community.
“Collaboration with TMPD and other stakeholders is vital to ensure effective enforcement,” she said.
Rekord did contact TMPD for a response, but none had been received by the time of publication.
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