'Spotters' appointed to enforce no alcohol after 6 pm rule

This measure has been placed to curb the spread of the COVID-19 Coronavirus.

The Department of Corporative Governance (CoGTA) gazetted regulations on Wednesday to fight the pandemic, which includes a tighter grip on liquor restrictions and prohibitions on large gatherings.

Cele and Justice and Correctional Services Minister, Ronald Lamola briefed the media on Friday on the government’s measures to combat COVID-19.

"As from today, as the South African Police Service, we are appointing spotters. Those spotters will be in these places, especially places that sell food and alcohol.

"If you buy your bottle of alcohol at 17:55 you will have to take it home, you can't finish it where you are seated, where you continue to eat," he says.

Listen to Cele below:

Cele says the spotters will be members of the SAPS.

"Others will be in uniform, others won't be in uniform, but there will be given the information to the units that will respond as they are called,” he says.

"You might see them. You might not see them.”

Cele says they may not even have to use spotters at full capacity as community members are already calling the police to report establishments selling alcohol after 6 pm.

"We might not reach a time where we need a time where we need these spotters at 100%. Yesterday I was phoned - I think it was four calls - one was from Hillcrest, one was from Inanda, one from eMdantsane - telling me that it is 18:00 but people are still drinking. From ordinary community members.”

He adds that restaurants are urged to keep a register of people visiting the various establishments so they can be easily traced if need be.

He says the police can act against establishments that do not follow the rules.

Listen to Cele below:

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