dyton mupawaenda
Arron Nyamayaro
OWNERS of liquor outlets, who are violating their operating licences, have been told that they will soon face the consequences of their actions.
There has been concern among Harare residents that owners of the bottle stores, which have mushroomed in the CBD, have become a law unto themselves.
Many of them are now open until about midnight. These outlets are supposed to close at 8pm.
National police spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi said police have noted with concern a number of bottle stores in the CBD which are harbouring criminals by closing very late.
“Police have noted with concern a number of liquor outlets dotted in the CBD who are closing later than the stipulated time on their operating licences,” said Comm Nyathi.
“We are urging the liquor outlet owners to observe the time stipulated on their operation licences.
“First and foremost, in terms of the Liquor Act, the outlets have specified opening and closing time. Those operating bottle stores have their closing time, bars and nightclubs also have their time and we are urging them to comply accordingly.
“Let those violating these specified times not cry foul when police make raids.”
Comm Nyathi noted with concern some liquor outlets owners were even allowing children under the age of 18 to buy alcohol.
“We have noted with concern that some Liquor outlets have been harboring criminals by closing very late against their licences.
“Liquor outlets owners have the legal and social responsibility to protect children under 18 years of age by not allowing them to be in their outlets.”
Online Reporter