LIMPOPO – Intensified festive season operations in the province, targeting the mushrooming of illegal liquor outlets and checking for compliance, has resulted in the closure of 98 shebeens, the confiscation of large quantities of liquor and the arrest of more than 300 suspects. In addition, 29 licensed liquor premises were charged for non compliance.
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Police spokesperson, Brig Motlafela Mojapelo says the provincial operations have been targeting liquor outlets and crimes generated from these areas. “A total number of 380 suspects have so far been arrested for liquor related offenses and others were charged for non-compliance with the Liqour Act,” he said.
Mojapelo added that police will continue to conduct inspections on licensed liquor premises to ensure compliance.
“Two shebeens and 50 cases of liquor were confiscated in Groblersdal and the owners charged with operating liquor outlets without a licence. During the operation, dagga plants were also discovered and uprooted.
All arrested suspects are expected to appear before various magistrate courts, soon.
Provincial Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Nneke Ledwaba, has commended members for their hard work and dedication in fighting the scourge of liquor related crimes. He has also instructed that the operations must be intensified until all shebeens are closed and all licensed premises operate within the prescribed laws.
