Earlier this month, police arrested five suspects for allegedly operating a tavern and selling alcohol in Midrand.
The suspects were arrested on 8 January for allegedly operating a tavern and selling alcohol in Midrand on Market Street, despite the lockdown Level 3 regulations under the Disaster Management Act in an integrated operation by the Johannesburg Metro Police Department’s IIOC’s (Integrated Intelligence Operations Centre) undercover officials along with the South African Police Service.
According to JMPD spokesperson Constable Xolani Fihla, as part of the operation, officials were led to a tavern operating and selling alcohol as if it was normal. “Upon arrival, officers observed and noticed movement of people going in and out a passage leading to the tavern,” said Fihla.
“Officers made their way to the establishment, following a group of people who were drinking and apprehended one male and asked him where he bought the alcohol. The male led the officers to the tavern where the door was locked.
“Officers knocked and a person inside responded that they should go to another door. When the person opened the door, officers introduced themselves as police officials. Officers then entered the establishment.” Fihla added that four suspects and the buyer, who were all found at the establishment, were placed under arrest and detained at the Midrand Police Station for the contravention of the Disaster Management Act, adjusted alert Level 3 regulations by selling and dispensing alcohol. The seized alcohol was also booked in at the police station.
Constable Eliot Mabulane, spokesperson for the Midrand Police Station, confirmed the arrests.
“Five suspects were detained at the Midrand Police Station cells and are due to appear in court. Community and tavern owners are advised not to contravene regulations and to assist in curbing the spread of the coronavirus.”
Mabulane concluded that police applaud members of the public who work with them to fight these crimes.
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