Police Minister Bheki Cele has reiterated concerns regarding the popularity of alcohol outlets, citing their impact on increased crime rates across the nation.
Speaking at a Christmas Eve briefing in KwaZulu-Natal, Cele expressed worry about the rise in motorists driving under the influence, leading to several fatalities reported on busy roads during the festive season.
‘While the festive season is a time for celebration, it’s alarming that some motorists still opt to drink and drive,’ Minister Cele stated.
Also read: Festive season safety: WC police make over 460 arrests in one week
The minister highlighted statistics, revealing that over 4400 drunk drivers have been arrested since 15 October. Additionally, within the first 22 days of December, 2500 people were arrested for public drinking.
Linking alcohol abuse to violence, Cele emphasised its role as a significant contributor to crime, especially contact crimes.
Cele issued a stern warning to unlicensed liquor outlets, threatening closure and arrests for illegal alcohol sales. He disclosed that more than 6400 fines have been issued to non-compliant liquor outlets.
Watch what he had to say below:
#sapsHQ The Minister of Police, General Bheki Cele gives an update of the #SaferFestiveSeason Policing Operations on Christmas Eve. NPhttps://t.co/wRorte7Vq9 pic.twitter.com/eSS9MkaaOA
— SA Police Service 🇿🇦 (@SAPoliceService) December 24, 2023
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Picture: @SAPoliceService / X
