WCLA conduct more than 800 inspections in one month

Statement by the Western Cape Minister of Police Oversight and Community Safety, Reagen Allen

WCLA conduct more than 800 inspections in one month

Between 15 December 2023 and 15 January 2024, the Western Cape Liquor Authority (WCLA) conducted 816 inspections at licenced liquor outlets. This is inclusive of new licences which must be inspected within three months of their licence being issued. In addition to this, a total of 24 joint operations were conducted with other law enforcement agencies, including the South African Police Service and Law Enforcement.  

I commend the WCLA for the work they are doing. Having joined them during inspections in Delft, Mfuleni, Mitchells Plain, Lingelethu West and Plettenberg Bay it became clear that the Authority seeks to ensure that outlets are fully compliant with all of their licensing prescripts. It was encouraging to note how firm, decisive and fair the inspectors are, as they sought to ensure that there is very little interruption in the economic activity of the outlets. Regrettably there are times when certain outlets do not adhere.

During this period, 

- Thirty-three (33) compliance notices were issued, which relates to a failure by licensees to display documentation relating to the licence, while

- Sixteen (16) non-compliance reports were submitted for more serious transgressions. Amongst others, this can lead to stricter licence conditions, suspension or the revocation of a licence being instituted.

The interventions by the inspectors are very important, particularly in our hotspot areas. The second quarter crime statistics for the 2023/24 financial year, indicate that in the Western Cape, 16 people were killed, 12 attempted murders occurred, 6 alleged rapes were reported and 119 grievous bodily harm assault (GBH) cases happened at liquor outlets. The WCLA has a role to play in combatting crimes, by ensuring that licenced liquor outlets trade in a responsible, yet profitable manner. 

I urge all liquor traders to always comply with the various regulations. This will undoubtedly assist in combatting both the harms and crimes that are associated with liquor, while also providing a platform for the outlets to thrive economically and trade lawfully.