The Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality (BCM) recently conducted a series of raids on 47 liquor outlets and is committed to intensifying these operations across the Metro.
According to a BCM statement, on Saturday, August 24, BCM Law Enforcement Services raided five outlets in Mzamomhle. A total of 12 outlets were raided in Gonubie, and these included hotels, taverns, bottle stores, and restaurants.
On Sunday, August 25, the operation moved to the Quigney area where 16 outlets were raided.
According to the statement, these outlets “were inspected for compliance in terms of adherence to Municipal Bylaws.”
Eastern Cape Liquor Board spokesperson, Mgwebi Msiya, praised BCM’s efforts, stating, “We commend the work done by BCM Law Enforcement in enforcing compliance and ensuring that our liquor outlets within the Municipality trade or conduct their businesses within the confines of the law.”
BCM spokesperson, Samkelo Ngwenya, indicated that more operations would follow based on observed transgressions.
He added, “Even if we visit the same places multiple times, handing out fines, executing arrests, and closing them down until they comply.”
Ngwenya emphasised the importance of these operations as the year progresses.
“It is crucial that we gather momentum and set the tone to eliminate those who take chances.”
Msiya further noted that the Eastern Cape Liquor Board believes these raids will encourage liquor traders to take their businesses seriously and adhere to their liquor license conditions.
“We hope these raids are sustained for a longer time so that every trader behaves and conducts their business in a more responsible manner,” said Msiya.
In addition to the raids, BCM Law Enforcement Services also addressed several other issues:
- Drinking in public in the Quigney and Esplanade areas.
- Extinguishing braai fires.
- Conducting foot patrols on Fleet Street, Esplanade, and Court Crescent.
- Responding to loud music complaints and public drinking complaints at Heroes Park.
“We commend the work being done in partnership with the ratepayers’ association and community policing forums in the Quigney area. We will continue with regular patrols and inspections, especially along the beachfront,” the BCM statement concluded.
