Cops warn against illegal liquor outlets

Police have warned Mthatha residents that anyone found running an illegal liquor business would face the full might of the law.

This after as many as six shebeens and taverns found to be operating illegally and without any paperwork were shut down in Phola Park and Slovo Park informal settlements in the Mthatha West area at the weekend.

Police spokesman Lieutenant-Colonel Mzukisi Fatyela said the raids were part of the police’s festive crime operations in and around the city.

“They contribute a great deal to the rise in crime because it is in places like these where it’s easier for criminals to spend time plotting how to rob people and commit other crimes. Some are even used to sell drugs.

“They open until morning without adhering to by-laws which regulate licensed taverns and shebeens,” he said.

Fatyela issued a strong warning to other residents who might want to follow suit by opening illegal taverns and shebeens that the law would come down hard on them. “It is a crime and you will be arrested and dealt with harshly should you be caught,” he added.