Harare police raid illegal alcohol distribution point in Endlovini
A 67-year-old woman was arrested, and a large cache of alcohol was found after Harare police forced entry into a heavily secured premises following a tip-off on Monday, January 12.
The officers heard that a shack in the Endlovini informal settlement was allegedly being used as a storage and distribution point for alcohol supplied to illegal shebeens.
The structure was heavily secured with steel doors, necessitating the use of heavy tools to gain entry. Inside, officers found no occupants but a substantial quantity of alcohol, including expensive whiskies, ciders, brandy, and beers, along with more than 100 empty beer cases.
The woman reportedly told police that the shack belongs to her son. She is expected to be charged with the illegal distribution of alcohol.
Large quantities of alcohol seized by Harare Police Station officers following a raid on an illegal alcohol outlet in the Endlovini Informal Settlement, Khayelitsha. Police have vowed to intensify operations against unlicensed alcohol traders.
Image: siyavuya khaya
Warrant Officer Nosiphiwo Mntengwane, spokesperson for Harare police station, said the operation forms part of ongoing efforts to curb crime linked to illegal alcohol outlets.
“The Endlovini area is among the most problematic areas in our policing precinct. A number of deaths originate from this area, and alcohol abuse is a major contributing factor,” she said.
She said that violent crimes often occur late at night when patrons leave illegal shebeens.
“When these shebeens operate beyond midnight, that is when people are stabbed and killed. These establishments do not adhere to operating hours, and that poses a serious threat to community safety,” she said.
Warrant officer Mntengwane said police will continue conducting similar operations, as they have yielded positive results.
“We will continue with these interventions because we are seeing the benefits. However, we cannot engage with illegal shebeen owners. We only engage with licensed tavern owners who are regulated by the Liquor Board."
She said when licensed taverns close, patrons often move to illegal shebeens, fueling late-night crime.
Community members have welcomed the police action. Resident Siyabulela Mvana praised the authorities for their continued efforts.
“We are grateful for the police’s commitment to shutting down illegal shebeens. These places destroy families and put our lives at risk,” said Mr Mvana.