Categories: Local News

Alcohol could land beach-goers in hot water

The Scottburgh SAPS has finalised the festive season planning, and has commenced with the implementation phase of its crime prevention strategies, Mid South Coast Rising Sun reports.

This year, greater emphasis is being placed on the policing of the Scottburgh main beach.

READ MORE: Dlamini launches anti-substance and alcohol abuse campaign in Western Cape

The Scottburgh SAPS management has agreed that increased police visibility and a zero-tolerance approach are key to maintaining law and order on the beachfront.

Beachgoers are warned that that there will be roadblocks at various points, road closures on certain days to control access to the beaches, random stop and search operations as well as vehicle searches to prevent liquor, drugs and other contraband being taken on to the beaches.

The bylaws prohibiting the consumption of liquor on the Scottburgh main beach will be stringently enforced.

“We have arrested motorists for drunken driving and spinning of vehicle tyres on several occasions and will certainly come down hard on perpetrators this festive season.

“We have had planning sessions with our crime-fighting partners at provincial and municipal levels, and are ready to enforce the law so that the law-abiding members of our communities may enjoy the use of public amenities without interference.

“Drownings are of great concern during this period. Parents should ensure that their children do not go swimming without adult supervision. Many children have lost their lives while swimming in estuaries, dams and rivers during the school holidays. The public is urged to swim only in designated areas and where there are lifeguards on duty.

“Remember that alcohol and swimming do not mix.”