Liquor confiscated during raids on illegal traders

The KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) Liquor Authority has intensified its efforts to curb unauthorised sales of alcohol in the province.

The move follows the KZN Liquor Authority's active involvement in two extensive joint operations aimed at eradicating illicit liquor trade.

The initial operation spanned four days and was executed in collaboration with the Department of Agriculture, Land Reform, and Rural Development. Focused on the eThekwini and surrounding areas, the operation sought to root out illegal liquor sales and distribution networks.

The second operation, conducted in partnership with Esikhaleni SAPS, unfolded in Esikhaleni (Esikhawini), within the King Cetshwayo District. This joint effort, in co-ordination with SAPS Crime Intelligence, eThekwini Metro Police, and other relevant stakeholders, significantly increased surveillance and targeted illegal liquor dealers.

During the operations, two individuals were apprehended in Durban Central for illicit liquor sales. Law enforcement seized a substantial quantity of illicit (counterfeit) liquor, estimated at a street value of approximately R200000, for laboratory analysis. Additionally, containers housing suspicious brands were confiscated for further examination at licensed establishments.

In collaboration with Esikhaleni SAPS and Isidingo Security, the KZN Liquor Authority spearheaded the Esikhaleni Law Enforcement Operation. This initiative aims to address non-compliance issues among liquor license holders and close down illegal outlets. Notably, SAPS discovered and processed three unlicensed outlets, confiscating 555.58 litres of illicit liquor during the operation.

The KZN Liquor Authority said in a statement that these operations underscored their unwavering commitment to controlling and regulating liquor sales in the province.

“The authority pledges to intensify enforcement operations while concurrently educating license holders on the importance of adhering to license conditions. The public is urged to report any instances of liquor sales occurring without proper permits or the manufacturing of illicit liquor,” read the statement.

The Authority will be hosting a series of educational workshops that will assist prospective liquor license applicants on legal trading practices within the province, provide details regarding schedules and venues to be disseminated across all KZN Liquor Authority social media platforms.