Western Cape continue to clamp on lawless liquor traders

Liquor traders continue to break lockdown laws by selling booze to thirsty South Africans, with the Western Cape Liquor Authority (WCLA) suspending a host of retail licenses across the province. 

37 investigations into illegal trading have been conducted, with 14 liquor licenses revoked and the 19 more to be submitted to a Liquor Licensing Tribunal (LLT). 

Suspensions and fines for offenders

Alcohol was banned during the nationwide lockdown, and there doesn’t appear to be any relaxation of that decree on the cards. Despite this, law enforcement agencies have been kept busy dealing with rule-breaking traders. 

Western Cape Minister for Community Safety, Albert Fritz, said on Wednesday 29 April that breaking the laws would result in harsh punishment. 

“Those whose licenses have been suspended will have to appear before the LLT within 21 days after the lockdown period having expired to show cause of why the order should not be made final,” he said. 

“Subsequently, section 20 hearings will be scheduled where the LLT can revoke the license or impose a fine of up to R115 610 if the licensee has been found guilty of transgressing any legislation or regulations.”

Call for public support  

He added that each case will be thoroughly interrogated, and urged the public to make law enforcement agencies aware of wrong-doers. 

“I have requested that the WCLA join the PROVJOINTS committee and be included in every case were liquor was sold or an arrest was made to better track the original point of sale. I further welcome the resolution taken by PROVJOINTS on 25 March that no alcohol will be returned to any outlet after paying admission of guilt fine.”

“I urge members of the public who are aware of the illegal sale of alcohol to immediately report such to SAPS,” he said. 

“The WCLA’s contract centre has continued to operate remotely during the lockdown and has processed approximately 269 enquiries and/or complaints,” said Fritz.