Booze goes down the drain: ‘Illegal alcohol a big problem on West Rand’
Various stakeholders from across the West Rand District gathered to destroy illegal alcohol.
Major General Lorrain Chullen, along with various other stakeholders, joined the Randfontein Police for the disposal of confiscated liquor.
On August 30, West Rand District officials came together at the Randfontein Police Station to destroy liquor that had been confiscated during various operations of crime prevention across the West Rand.
During a sit-down before the destruction, the stakeholders discussed the effects of illegal alcohol distribution.
According to Tumi Molusi, MMC of Public Safety for the West Rand District Municipality, R11.3m in revenue is being lost due to illicit alcohol.
Fati Manamela, chief director for the Gauteng Liquor Board, added the illicit sale and consumption of alcohol threatens the public’s health and the community’s safety. Many times alcohol contains harmful substances. Further this act leads to other issues including unbecoming conduct, criminal activity and tax evasion, not to mention the undermining of legitimate businesses.
“Let’s work together to destroy illegal alcohol to create a safe and healthier environment for all,” said Manamela.
Chullen continued the abuse of alcohol is a problem especially when a person gets into a vehicle knowing they are under the influence. She suffered the consequences of a drunk driver when she lost her brother and sister-in-law due to a drunk driver. This big loss in their family left her two nephews orphaned.
She noted there is a perception among the public that confiscated alcohol goes back into circulation, which is not the case.
She added on the West Rand, illegal alcohol is a big problem. It fuels domestic violence cases as well as contributes to the high number of murders.
Assistant Director of Community Safety Calvin Ngwenya stated it is important to show the community that illicit alcohol is being destroyed to avoid false perceptions. In a nutshell, illicit alcohol has effects on tax and illegal acts, it can be poisonous and contributes to crimes including attempted murder, rape and assault.
