The Gauteng government is stepping up efforts to curb excessive drinking, reckless behaviour and violence during the festive season.
The province has deployed 80 liquor wardens to strengthen the enforcement of liquor laws and improve safety in communities.
The wardens will work with the Gauteng Liquor Board and police to monitor liquor outlets.
The wardens will mainly operate from Thursday afternoons to Monday mornings, when liquor trading is at its busiest. They will be based at SAPS District commissioners’ offices and will work with police and municipalities to monitor compliance at licensed liquor outlets.
Government says the programme is also part of efforts to address alcohol-related crime and violence, including gender-based violence. It hopes the increased enforcement will help reduce irresponsible liquor trading and create safer communities.
Reporting by Siphiwe Mkhize